The word "dotation" is spelled d-o-t-a-t-i-o-n. In IPA phonetic transcription, it's written as /doʊˈteɪʃən/. The first syllable is stressed, and it's pronounced as "doh". The "t" is hard, so it's pronounced with a slight emphasis. The "a" in the third syllable is pronounced as a short vowel sound, and the "tion" at the end is pronounced as "shun". Overall, the word is used to describe a gift or endowment given to a person or institution.
Dotation is a noun that refers to the act or process of providing a gift, endowment, or grant of money, property, or resources to an individual, organization, or institution. It involves the allocation or bestowing of financial or material resources to support a particular cause, such as education, research, art, or charity.
In the context of higher education, dotation often refers to the funds or assets endowed to a university or college, usually by individuals, philanthropists, or governmental entities, with the intention of ensuring the institution's long-term financial stability and capacity for education and research. These dotation funds are typically invested, with the generated income supporting the designated purpose or benefiting the institution in general.
Beyond academia, dotation can also pertain to the provision of funds or resources to charitable organizations or initiatives aimed at addressing social, environmental, or humanitarian needs. Such endowments can be in the form of monetary grants, land, buildings, equipment, or any other valuable assets that can contribute to the fulfillment of the organization's mission and objectives.
Dotation is a vital aspect of sustaining the financial health and operations of various entities, serving as a means to ensure their functioning and continuity. It embodies the act of generosity and philanthropy, facilitating the growth, development, and impact of individuals, organizations, or institutions seeking to make a positive difference in society.
Endowment; establishment of funds for support, as of an hospital; a dowry or portion.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Dotation" has its origin in the Latin term "dotare", which means "to endow" or "to provide with a dowry". The noun form "dotation" emerged in the medieval period, particularly in legal and ecclesiastical contexts, to refer to the act of bestowing a gift, endowment, or grant upon an individual or institution. The term has since been used to describe funds or properties given for the benefit of organizations, such as universities, foundations, or religious establishments.