facilitate

[fuh-sil-i-teyt]

verb (used with object)

facilitated, facilitating 

1. to make easier or less difficult; help forward (an action, a process, etc.).

   Careful planning facilitates any kind of work.

2. to lead or moderate (a discussion, workshop, etc.), especially as a person trained to do so.

   An instructor will facilitate the online discussions, providing students with the questions beforehand.

3. to assist the progress of (a person).

facilitate

/ fəˈsɪlɪˌteɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to make easier; assist the progress of

Other Word Forms

• facilitative adjective
• facilitator noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of facilitate¹

First recorded in 1605–15; facilit(y) + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

The Compact also will facilitate California’s firefighters gaining experience with fire suppression efforts in other member regions, which “strengthens readiness at home,” officials said.

From Los Angeles Times

It was 50 yards long but just one yard wide - and contained just enough water to facilitate the laps.

From BBC

It is not known whether Ballmer was aware of or played a role in facilitating the employment agreement between Aspiration and Leonard.

From Los Angeles Times

Those who purchase cheap goods from online sites are unwittingly facilitating this crime and we would urge them to consider this.''

From BBC

Speaking at the summit in Tianjin, Putin thanked the Chinese and Indian leaders for their support and their efforts to "facilitate the resolution of the Ukrainian crisis".

From BBC

Related Words

• aid 
• ease 
• expedite 
• further 
• help 
• promote 
• simplify 
• speed