Definition of constitute

The word "constitute" derives from the Latin verb constituere, which means "to establish" or "to set up." Its root words "con" (meaning "together") and "stitutere" (meaning "to put") provide insights into the meaning of the modern English word. In the 14th century, "constitute" first appeared in Middle English, meaning "to establish" or "to found." Later on, in the 16th century, it began to take on a new, broader meaning, which is to "form or make up a whole; comprise; be essential to." This expanded usage of "constitute" can be traced back to its Latin root word "stitutere," which could be interpreted as meaning "to cause to stand" or "to set up," implying both the formation of something new and the establishment of a structure or foundation. Today, the word "constitute" is commonly used in various contexts, such as legal, political, and biological realms, where it denotes composing a group or entity, establishing a situation, or serving as an essential element.