obtain

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   To get something, especially by making an effort.

   How did you obtain a copy of the report?

2. 2
   verb

   To exist or be true in a particular situation.

   The same rules obtain in every branch of the company.

From Middle English obteinen, from Anglo-Norman obtenir, optiner et al., and Middle French obtenir, from Latin obtinēre (“to gain, achieve, succeed, possess”), from ob- + tenēre (“to hold”).

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