dictate
verb (used with object)
to say or read (something) aloud for another person to transcribe or for a machine to record.
dictated
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past participleof dictate.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof dictate.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
dictateverb (used with object)to say or read (something) aloud for another person to transcribe or for a machine to record.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Sandy confirms making that call, claiming her email was dictated by her stepdaughter.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 25, 2026
For more than a quarter-century, a lawsuit settlement from a case brought in Los Angeles federal court has dictated conditions for children held in immigration detention.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 24, 2026
Spain dictated possession for much of the afternoon while Argentina defended stubbornly, forcing the final into extra time before the breakthrough finally came.
From Salon ● Jul. 19, 2026
"Portugal dictated most of the game, but Rafael Leao did not offer that extra spark, neither did the other substitutes," said Balague.
From BBC ● Jul. 6, 2026
Their fife was not questionable; it was dictated.
From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White
