online vocabulary.com

Rote - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Rote refers to learning or memorizing something through repetition without necessarily understanding it. It is often used to describe mechanical or habitual recall, such as rote memorization of facts or phrases.

rote

/roʊt/ /rəʊt/

Definition:

Mechanical or habitual repetition of something to be learned.

Synonyms:

memorization, repetition, drill, routine

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

understanding, comprehension

Common Collocations:

rote learning, rote memorization, by rote

Derivatives:

rotely, roteness

Usage Tips:

Use "rote" to describe learning without understanding, often through repetition alone.

Common Phrases:

learn by rote, repeat by rote, recite by rote

Etymology:

From Old French "rote," meaning "route" or "path," later implying habitual practice.

Examples:

  • 1. She learned the poem by rote but didn’t understand its meaning.
  • 2. Rote memorization helps with multiplication tables but not critical thinking.
  • 3. The teacher discouraged rote learning in favor of creative problem-solving.
  • 4. He recited the speech by rote without any emotion.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS