Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Initiate \In*i"ti*ate\, v. t. [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.