The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Initiate \In*i"ti*ate\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Initiated; p. pr.
   & vb. n. Initiating.] [L. initiatus, p. p. of initiare to
   begin, fr. initium beginning. See Initial.]
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   1. To introduce by a first act; to make a beginning with; to
      set afoot; to originate; to commence; to begin or enter
      upon.
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            How are changes of this sort to be initiated? --I.
                                                  Taylor.
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   2. To acquaint with the beginnings; to instruct in the
      rudiments or principles; to introduce.
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            Providence would only initiate mankind into the
            useful knowledge of her treasures, leaving the rest
            to employ our industry.               --Dr. H. More.
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            To initiate his pupil into any part of learning, an
            ordinary skill in the governor is enough. --Locke.
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   3. To introduce into a society or organization; to confer
      membership on; especially, to admit to a secret order with
      mysterious rites or ceremonies.
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            The Athenians believed that he who was initiated and
            instructed in the mysteries would obtain celestial
            honor after death.                    --Bp.
                                                  Warburton.
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            He was initiated into half a dozen clubs before he
            was one and twenty.                   --Spectator.
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