militate etymology

Etymology

The word "militate" originates from the Latin verb "militare," meaning "to serve as a soldier." It is derived from the noun "miles," meaning "soldier."

Meaning and Origin

In the original Latin sense, "militate" referred to military service and the actions of a soldier. Over time, it has evolved to have several extended meanings:

• To favor or support: To argue in favor of something or someone, often with evidence or logic.
• To hinder or obstruct: To create obstacles or difficulties that prevent something from happening.
• To have an effect: To influence or make a difference, either positively or negatively.

In legal contexts, "militate" is often used to describe factors that influence a judge's decision or jury's verdict. It suggests that certain evidence or arguments tend to support or weaken a particular position.

Example Usage

• "The evidence militates strongly in favor of the defendant's innocence." (To support)
• "The lack of financial resources militates against the project's success." (To hinder)
• "The fact that the witness was under the influence of alcohol militates against the reliability of their testimony." (To have an effect)

militate relate terms

• military

  Etymology The word military comes from the Latin word miles which means soldier T

• militant

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• militate

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• influence

  Etymology Middle English influence from Old French influence from Late Latin influ

• work

  Etymology The word work comes from the Old English word weorc which means to do t

• frustration

  Etymology The word frustration derives from Latin frustrare meaning to deceive

• follow

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• specious

  Etymology The word specious has Latin roots deriving from the following speciōsus

• plagiarism

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• carbohydrate

• sand

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• patience

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• trespass

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