to put (money) to use, by purchase or expenditure, in something offering potential profitable returns, as interest, income, or appreciation in value.

to use (money), as in accumulating something

to invest large sums in books.

to use, give, or devote (time, talent, etc.), as for a purpose or to achieve something

He invested a lot of time in helping retarded children.

to furnish with power, authority, rank, etc.

The Constitution invests the president with the power of veto.

to furnish or endow with a power, right, etc.; vest

Feudalism invested the lords with absolute authority over their vassals.

to endow with a quality or characteristic

to invest a friend with every virtue.

to infuse or belong to, as a quality or characteristic

Goodness invests his every action.

Metallurgy . to surround (a pattern) with an investment.

to provide with the insignia of office.

to install in an office or position.

to clothe, attire, or dress.

to cover, adorn, or envelop

Spring invests the trees with leaves.

to surround (a place) with military forces or works so as to prevent approach or escape; besiege.

to invest money; make an investment

to invest in oil stock.

noun

backer , banker , capitalist , lender , shareholder , stockholder , venture capitalist