do·mes·ti·cate [ də mésti kàyt ](past and past participledo·mes·ti·cat·ed, present participledo·mes·ti·cat·ing, 3rd person present singulardo·mes·ti·cates)
transitive verb
Definition:
1. tame animal: to accustom an animal to living with or near people, usually as a farm animal or pet
2. accustom somebody to household life: to accustom somebody to home life or housework
(
humorous
)
3. biology adapt plants or animals for humans: to cultivate plants or raise animals, selectively breeding them to increase their suitability for human requirements
[Mid-17th century. < medieval Latin domesticat-, past participle of domesticare< Latin domesticus (see domestic)]
