What are the geek and Latin roots of dictate their meaning?

The word "dictate" comes from the Latin word "dictare," which means "to say, to speak, to declare, to pronounce." This root points to the core meaning of "dictate" as giving orders or instructions.

There isn't a specific "geek" root associated with "dictate," as the word has been in use for centuries and predates modern geek culture. However, the concept of "dictating" can be seen in various geek-related contexts:

* Code dictation: In software development, "dictating" code can refer to verbally describing code to a programmer who then writes it.

* Game master's dictation: In tabletop roleplaying games, the game master (GM) "dictates" the story, rules, and environment for the players.

* Fanfiction dictation: Fanfiction writers often "dictate" their own versions of events or characters within a fictional universe.

The act of "dictating" implies a certain level of authority and control, which is often associated with leadership roles within geek communities. While "dictate" itself doesn't have a geek root, its usage within these contexts highlights the power dynamics and collaborative storytelling inherent in geek culture.