ετοιμάζω
Lemma: ετοιμάζω
Translation: to prepare; to make ready; to get ready; to arrange (verb)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἑτοιμάζω (hetoimázō), derived from ἕτοιμος (hétoimos) meaning 'ready, prepared'. The root connects to the concept of readiness and preparation. The word has maintained its core meaning throughout its evolution from Ancient to Modern Greek.
Example Usage
Ετοιμάζω το δείπνο.
I am preparing dinner.
Ετοιμάζουμε τη βαλίτσα για το ταξίδι.
We are preparing the suitcase for the trip.
Ετοίμασε τα πάντα για το πάρτι.
She prepared everything for the party.
Ετοιμάζομαι να φύγω.
I am getting ready to leave.
Ετοιμάζουμε τα πράγματά μας για το ταξίδι.
We are preparing our things for the trip.
Ετοίμασε το δωμάτιο για τους καλεσμένους.
He prepared the room for the guests.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'ετοιμάζω' as containing 'έτοιμος' (ready) - you're making something ready.
- The 'ετοιμ-' sound can remind English speakers of 'team' - when you prepare something, you're getting your 'team' ready.
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
A very common verb in everyday Greek life, particularly important in contexts of hospitality where preparing for guests is culturally significant. Greeks take pride in being well-prepared hosts, so this verb carries cultural weight beyond its literal meaning.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: This is not a real Greek word but might be mistakenly written by omitting the initial 'ε' of 'ετοιμάζω'.
Confused word:
N/A (not a real word)
N/A
Notes: The initial 'ε' is essential and should never be omitted.
Mnemonic: Remember that 'ετοιμάζω' always starts with 'ε' and contains the word 'έτοιμος' (ready).
Explanation: Not a common Greek verb, but could be confused with 'ετοιμάζω' due to similar sounds. 'Τιμάζω' would be related to 'τιμή' (honor) if it existed in common usage.
Confused word:
N/A (not commonly used)
N/A
Notes: Focus on the meaning of preparation and readiness to avoid confusion.
Mnemonic: 'Ετοιμάζω' has to do with preparation ('έτοιμος' = ready), not with honor ('τιμή').