Definition

To fill an area with people or living things; to provide a place with inhabitants.

Example

The new housing development will populate the area with families.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how many animals populate the rainforest?

Yeah, it's amazing! So many different species live there.

I read that some creatures can only be found in specific areas that they populate.

That makes sense; their habitats are so unique and diverse.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Populate → It is formed from "populus" (meaning people) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating to cause or make). The word "populate" means to cause a place to be filled with people or to make it populated.

Memory Tip

Think of 'people' ('populus') being 'made' to fill a space — that's why populate means to fill an area with people.

Visually Confused Words