Provide/prəˈvaɪd/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Contextual Use Use 'provide' to describe offering what is necessary or helpful in a situation. The NGO provides food and shelter to those affected by the disaster. Pro Tip 2/3Not Exchange 'Provide' implies giving without necessarily expecting something in return, unlike 'sell'. The library provides free access to books and computers. Pro Tip 3/3Assurance Using 'provide' suggests reliability and assurance that needs will be met. Parents work hard to provide a good education for their children.