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adjective

gespendet

donate

Definition & meaning

The word gespendet is the past participle of the German verb spenden. It generally describes the act of giving something away voluntarily, usually for a charitable, social, or helpful purpose, without expecting anything in return.

There are two primary ways this word is used:

  1. Charitable Giving: It refers to donating money, goods, or biological material (like blood or organs) to help others or support a cause. For example, money given to a relief organization or clothes given to a shelter are described as "gespendet".
  2. Providing or Bestowing: In a more literary or abstract sense, it means to provide something beneficial or necessary. Common collocations include "Schatten spenden" (to provide shade) or "Trost spenden" (to offer comfort). In these cases, it describes the act of giving a feeling or a physical condition rather than a material object.

Grammar & Word origin

The word gespendet is the Partizip II (past participle) of the weak verb spenden. It is used to form perfect tenses (e.g., "er hat gespendet") or can function as an adjective (e.g., "das gespendete Geld").

The word originates from the Old High German "spentōn", which was borrowed from the Latin verb "expendere". In Latin, "expendere" means to weigh out or to pay out money. Over time, the meaning shifted from a general payment or expenditure to the specific act of giving for a good cause.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms

  • gestiftet: Used when something is endowed or established as a foundation.
  • gegeben: A general term for "given".
  • dargeboten: Used when something like comfort or an opportunity is offered.
  • finanziert: Used specifically if the donation is monetary and covers costs.
  • gewährt: Used when providing something like protection or help.

Antonyms

  • behalten: To keep something for oneself.
  • genommen: To take something instead of giving it.
  • kassiert: To collect or pocket money, often used in a more commercial or forceful sense.
  • verweigert: To refuse to give something, such as comfort or help.

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Examples

Sie haben viel Geld für die Schule gespendet.adjective

They have donated a lot of money to the school.

Hast du deine alte Kleidung bereits gespendet?adjective

Have you already donated your old clothes?

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