Definition

1. Verb:
   • To provide with necessary items or resources for a particular purpose or task: This is the core meaning, focusing on supplying the tools, machinery, clothing, or other physical items required for an activity.
   • To prepare or furnish with qualities, skills, or knowledge needed for a specific role or situation: This meaning extends to non-physical preparation, such as education or training.

Examples of Usage

• Verb (Providing Physical Items):
  • The laboratory was equipped with the latest microscopes.
  • We need to equip the new office with desks and computers.
• Verb (Providing Skills/Qualities):
  • A good education equips students to think critically.
  • His military training equipped him to handle high-pressure situations.

Advanced Usage

• "to equip oneself": To prepare oneself by obtaining necessary items or knowledge.
  • Before the trek, she equipped herself with a sturdy backpack and a detailed map.
• "well-equipped / poorly-equipped": Adjectives describing the adequacy of provisions.
  • The well-equipped kitchen made cooking a pleasure.
  • The poorly-equipped clinic struggled to treat patients.

Variants and Related Words

• Equipment (n): The set of necessary tools, clothing, or machinery for a particular purpose.
  • The camping equipment was packed in the car.
• Equipper (n): One who equips (less common).
• Re-equip (v): To equip again or with new items.
  • The company decided to re-equip the factory with automated systems.

Synonyms

• Supply: To make (something needed) available to someone.
• Furnish: To provide or supply (often for a room or building).
• Outfit: To provide with a set of clothes or equipment.
• Arm: To supply with tools or means, often for defense or a struggle (e.g., ).
• Prepare: To make ready for use or consideration.

Related Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "Equip" is not commonly used with particles to form standard phrasal verbs. The verb is typically used transitively with "with.")

Related Idioms

• "Equipped for": Prepared or supplied for a specific challenge or task.
  • Is the team equipped for the difficulties ahead?
• "Equipped to": Having the necessary ability, skill, or means to do something.
  • He is not equipped to deal with such complex legal matters.

Verb

1. provide with abilities or understanding
   • She was never equipped to be a dancer
2. provide with (something) usually for a specific purpose
   • The expedition was equipped with proper clothing, food, and other necessities