Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/əkˈsiːd/

Definitions

• To agree to a request, demand, or proposal.
• To attain or reach a position, particularly in reference to power or authority.
• (In law) To formally accept or consent to an agreement or arrangement.

Usage Examples

• "The government acceded to the demands of the protestors."
• "She acceded to the role of CEO after much deliberation."
• "The country acceded to the treaty under significant pressure."

Etymology

From Latin "accedere" meaning "to approach" or "to yield to", from "ad-" (toward) + "cedere" (to go). First used in English in the early 17th century.

Synonyms

• Agree
• Consent
• Accept
• Comply
• Submit

Antonyms

• Refuse
• Deny
• Reject
• Disagree

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the pronunciation of "accede" is generally /əkˈsiːd/, with the stress on the second syllable.
• In British English, the pronunciation may be softer, but the stress remains on the second syllable.

Historical Usage

The word "accede" first appeared in English in the 16th century, derived from the Latin "accedere," meaning "to approach" or "to yield." Historically, it was used in legal and diplomatic contexts to describe a formal agreement or acceptance of a proposal or treaty.

Cultural Nuances

In legal and diplomatic circles, "accede" often signifies more than just agreement; it denotes a formal, often solemn, acceptance or submission to an external force, treaty, or authority. The term is frequently used in international law when a country joins an international treaty or agreement that has been established previously by others.

More Information

"Accede" plays an important role in diplomacy and law. It refers to the formal act of agreeing to a proposal, treaty, or arrangement. It differs slightly from other terms like "agree" or "accept" in that it carries a sense of official or formal approval. Historically, it has been particularly important in treaties where one party or nation "accedes" to an existing arrangement rather than negotiating a new one. In legal contexts, to accede to a contract is to formally accept and be bound by its terms, often used in relation to international agreements or long-standing contracts.