Definition of the word provide for

The phrase "provide for" in its modern meaning has its roots in Old English, where it was spelled as "cræfian," which translated to "create" or "make." However, by the Middle English era (1100-1500), the meaning of the word had evolved to encompass actions beyond just creation. "Providen" became the new Middle English term for this connotation, which meant "supply" or "preparation." The word evolved further in the Early Modern English period (1500-1800) to "provide," which also directly fed into its modern interpretation. In this phase, "provide" gained the meaning of "make arrangements beforehand" or "anticipate a future need." It was used in both the active and passive voices, with phrases such as "he providers" and "they were provided for." By the period's end, the phrase "provide for" had solidified its meaning as "prepare for the needs of" or "supply the needs of," which continues to this day in English.