Inform

Inform In*form", v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Informed}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Informing}.] [OE. enformen, OF. enformer, F. informer. L. informare; pref. in- in + formare to form, share, fr. forma form. See {Form}.] 1. To give form or share to; to give vital or organizing power to; to give life to; to imbue and actuate with vitality; to animate; to mold; to figure; to fashion. ``The informing Word.'' --Coleridge. [1913 Webster]

Let others better mold the running mass Of metals, and inform the breathing brass. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]

Breath informs this fleeting frame. --Prior. [1913 Webster]

Breathes in our soul, informs our mortal part. --Pope. [1913 Webster]

2. To communicate knowledge to; to make known to; to acquaint; to advise; to instruct; to tell; to notify; to enlighten; -- usually followed by of. [1913 Webster]

For he would learn their business secretly, And then inform his master hastily. --Spenser. [1913 Webster]

I am informed thoroughly of the cause. --Shak. [1913 Webster]

3. To communicate a knowledge of facts to, by way of accusation; to warn against anybody. [1913 Webster]

Tertullus . . . informed the governor against Paul. --Acts xxiv. 1.

Syn: To acquaint; apprise; tell; teach; instruct; enlighten; animate; fashion. [1913 Webster]