accustom
UK: əˈkʌstəm | US: əˈkʌstəm
vt. to make someone or something familiar with or used to something through repeated exposure or practice
accustom = ac<to, toward> + custom<habit>
- ac (prefix): From Latin ad- ("to, toward"), assimilated to ac- before c- sounds. Indicates direction or addition.
- custom (root): From Old French costume ("habit, practice"), derived from Latin consuetudo ("habit, usage"). Refers to established practices or traditions.
Etymology Origin:
The word "accustom" traces back to the Latin ad- + consuetudo, merging into Old French acostumer. The prefix ac- reinforces the idea of directing or adapting someone toward a habitual state (custom). Over time, it evolved into Middle English accustomen, retaining the core sense of making something familiar through repetition.
It takes time to accustom yourself to a new climate.
She tried to accustom her eyes to the darkness.
Travelers must accustom themselves to local customs.
The trainer accustomed the horse to loud noises gradually.
Children are quick to accustom themselves to new routines.