DictionaryAI

obtain

verb
uhb-TAYN/əbˈteɪn/

Formsobtains, obtaining, obtained

5 meanings of obtain

Practice

  1. 1
    verbtransitive
    To get something that you want or need, in any way.

    Like picking up a ticket before you can get on the train.

    You can obtain a library card by showing proof of address.

    She obtained permission before entering the building.

    Similarget, acquire, secure, gain

    Oppositelose

    Note
  2. 2
    verbintransitive
    To be true or in effect at a particular time or place.

    Like a rule that is still switched on and working.

    Strict safety rules obtain inside the laboratory.

    A sense of calm obtained throughout the whole village.

    Similarprevail, exist, hold

    Note
  3. 3
    verbobsoleteintransitive
    To win or come out on top in a fight or contest.

    Like the underdog team that wins the hard game in the end.

    The smaller army fought bravely and somehow obtained.

    This, though it failed at present, yet afterward obtained, and was a mighty step to the ruin of the commonwealth.
    1701, Jonathan Swift, Contests and Dissentions in Athens and RomeHere, obtained means won out or succeeded in the end.
    Note

Less common meanings

  1. 4
    verbobsoleteintransitive
    To make sure that something happens or is achieved.
    Note
  2. 5
    verbobsoletetransitive
    To hold or keep something in your possession.
    His mother then is mortal, but his Sire / He who obtains the monarchy of Heav'n, / And what will he not do to advance his Son?
    1671, John Milton, “The First Book”Here, obtains means holds or has something as his own.
    Note

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Origin

It comes from Latin obtinere, meaning to gain or possess, which was made from ob- plus tenere, meaning to hold.