enumerate

[ih-noo-muh-reyt, ih-nyoo-]

verb (used with object)

enumerated, enumerating 

1. to mention separately as if in counting; name one by one; specify, as in a list.

   Let me enumerate the many flaws in your hypothesis.

   Synonyms: recount, recapitulate

2. to ascertain the number of; count.

enumerate

/ ɪˈnjuːməˌreɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to mention separately or in order; name one by one; list

2. (tr) to determine the number of; count

3. to compile or enter (a name or names) in a voting list for an area

Other Word Forms

• enumerable adjective
• enumeration noun
• enumerative adjective
• enumerator noun
• nonenumerative adjective
• preenumerate verb (used with object)
• reenumerate verb (used with object)
• unenumerative adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of enumerate¹

First recorded in 1640–50; from Latin ēnumerātus “counted out,” past participle of ēnumerāre “to count out,” from ē- e- ¹ ( def. ) + numer(us) number + -āre, infinitive verb suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of enumerate¹

C17: from Latin ēnumerāre, from numerāre to count, reckon; see _number

Example Sentences

A July 25 New York Times article enumerates these details.

From Salon

Discovery announced additional details about its corporate split, saying the separate entities will be called Warner Bros. and Discovery Global and enumerating the properties that will fall under each separate company.

From Los Angeles Times

He also posted an image of the cartoon character SpongeBob SquarePants that appeared to mock the plight of federal workers, who had been asked by Musk to enumerate their job accomplishments of the last week.

From Los Angeles Times

He said he expected that standard would be applied in Iowa, even if state law does not specifically enumerate it.

From Los Angeles Times

He asked the editorial page leaders to create a feature enumerating the records of Trump and Harris during their respective four years as president and vice president.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• calculate 
• itemize 
• recite 
• specify 
• spell out 
• take account of 

When To Use

What does enumerate mean?

Enumerate means to name or list things one by one.Enumerate is typically used as a more formal alternative to the verb list. It emphasizes the fact that things are being specifically identified and listed one at a time.Less commonly, enumerate simply means to count. In Canada, it has a much more specific use: it means to enter names in an area’s voting list.Example: I welcome constructive criticism, but you don’t have to enumerate every single one of my mistakes in front of the rest of the people at the meeting.