verb

dedicar

dedicate · devote

Ofrecer tiempo, esfuerzo o algo propio a una persona, actividad o causa con atención y cariño.

Definition & meaning

The Spanish verb dedicar primarily means to dedicate or to devote. It is used in several different contexts:

To devote time or effort: It refers to spending time, energy, or resources on a specific activity, goal, or person. For example, one might dedicar time to studying.
To dedicate a work: It is used when an author, artist, or composer addresses a work to someone as a sign of affection or respect. For instance, an author might dedicar a book to their parents.
To consecrate or hallow: In a religious or ceremonial sense, it means to set something apart for a divine or sacred purpose, such as a temple or an altar.
Reflexive use (dedicarse): When used reflexively as dedicarse, it means to work as a professional or to occupy oneself with a specific task or hobby. It is the standard way to ask someone what they do for a living.

Grammar & Word origin

The word dedicar originates from the Latin verb dedicare, which is composed of the prefix de- (thoroughly) and dicare (to proclaim or settle).

In terms of grammar, it is a regular verb of the first conjugation (-ar). However, it undergoes a spelling change in certain forms to maintain the hard "k" sound. In the first person singular of the Preterite Indefinite and throughout the Present Subjunctive, the "c" changes to "qu":