Definition of: teach

(tēch) v. taught, teach·ing v.t.
1. To impart knowledge to by lessons; give instruction to; guide by precept or example; instruct: to teach a class.
2. To give instruction in; make known; communicate the knowledge of: to teach French.
3. To train by practice or exercise.
—v.i.
4. To follow the profession of teaching.
5. To impart knowledge or skill. [OE tæcan, tæcean] Synonyms: discipline, drill, educate, enlighten, indoctrinate, inform, initiate, instruct, nurture, school, train, tutor. To teach is to communicate knowledge; to instruct is to impart knowledge with special method and completeness; instruct has also an authoritative sense nearly equivalent to command. To educate is to draw out or develop the mental powers. To train is to direct to a certain result powers already existing. Train is used in preference to educate when the reference is to the inferior animals or to the physical powers of man; as, to train a horse; to train the hand or eye. To discipline is to bring into habitual and complete subjection to authority. To nurture is to furnish the care and sustenance necessary for physical, mental, and moral growth; nurture is a more tender word than educate. See INFORM¹, LEARN.