inform

in•form

[[t]ɪnˈfɔrm[/t]] v. t.

1) to give or impart knowledge of a fact or circumstance to:

We informed them of our arrival[/ex]

2) to supply (oneself) with knowledge of a matter or subject:

She informed herself of all the pertinent facts[/ex]

3) to pervade or permeate with manifest effect:

A love of nature informed his writing[/ex]

4) to animate or inspire

5) Obs.

a) to train or instruct

b) to make known; disclose

c) to give or impart form to

6) to give information; supply knowledge or enlightenment

7) to furnish incriminating evidence about someone, as to the police (usu. fol. by on or against)

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Etymology: 1275–1325; ME enfourmen < MF enfourmer < L infōrmāre to form, shape in•form′a•ble, adj. in•form′ing•ly, adv.