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From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.44 [gcide]:
Initiate \In*i"ti*ate\, verb (used with an object) [imp. & p. p. {Initiated}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Initiating}.] [L. initiatus, p. p. of initiare to begin, fr. initium beginning. See {Initial}.]
1. To introduce by a first act; to make a beginning with; to set afoot; to originate; to commence; to begin or enter upon.
How are changes of this sort to be initiated? --I. Taylor.
2. To acquaint with the beginnings; to instruct in the rudiments or principles; to introduce.
Providence would only initiate mankind into the useful knowledge of her treasures, leaving the rest to employ our industry. --Dr. H. More.
To initiate his pupil into any part of learning, an ordinary skill in the governor is enough. --Locke.
3. To introduce into a society or organization; to confer membership on; especially, to admit to a secret order with mysterious rites or ceremonies.
The Athenians believed that he who was initiated and instructed in the mysteries would obtain celestial honor after death. --Bp. Warburton.
He was initiated into half a dozen clubs before he was one and twenty. --Spectator.
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