from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Assist \As*sist"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Assisted}; p. pr. & vb.
n. {Assisting}.] [L. assistere; ad + sistere to cause to
stand, to stand, from stare to stand: cf. F. assister. See
{Stand}.]
To give support to in some undertaking or effort, or in time
of distress; to help; to aid; to succor.
[1913 Webster]
Assist me, knight. I am undone! --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
Syn: To help; aid; second; back; support; relieve; succor;
befriend; sustain; favor. See {Help}.
[1913 Webster]