invite

Invite is a verb meaning to request the presence of someone at an event or to persuade someone to do something. It can also be used as a noun, in informal usage for invitation, referring to the act of inviting or the invitation itself, as in "send out invites."

Etymology: The verb derives from Old French inviter, from Latin invitare, meaning to invite or entice. The noun invitation is the longer form.

Usage and etiquette: In social contexts invites typically specify event details such as time, place, and dress code, and often prompt a response. Etiquette varies by culture but generally invitations are extended in advance, and recipients are expected to respond (RSVP) where applicable. An invitation may also set attendance constraints, ticketing, or access requirements.

Digital and practical uses: Modern invitations are commonly sent by email, text, or messaging apps, and calendar systems can generate add-to-calendar invites. For online events, invitation links or codes grant access, sometimes with passwords or guest lists. Privacy considerations include limiting distribution and respecting recipient preferences.

Variants and related terms: Related terms include invitee (the person invited) and invitation (the object). In computing or gaming, invite can describe sending a user or participant an access link to join a session or group.