attain

UK: əˈteɪn | US: əˈteɪn

Definition
  1. vt. to achieve or accomplish something through effort

  2. vt. to reach a particular level, condition, or state

  3. vi. (archaic) to arrive at or reach a place

Structure
at <to, toward>tain <hold, reach>at <to, toward>tain <hold, reach>
Etymology

The word "attain" traces back to Latin attingere (to touch, reach), combining ad- (toward) and tangere (to touch). Through Old French attaindre, it evolved into Middle English with the sense of "achieving through effort." The core idea of "reaching a goal" has remained consistent, reflecting the physical act of touching or arriving at a destination metaphorically extended to abstract accomplishments.

Examples
  1. She worked hard to attain her dream of becoming a doctor.

  2. The team aims to attain a higher level of performance this season.

  3. After years of study, he finally attained mastery of the language.

  4. The temperature attained a record high yesterday.

  5. (Archaic) The travelers attained the village by nightfall.