acquire
UK[əˈkwaɪə(r)]US[əˈkwaɪər]
v
To get or obtain something, especially through effort or experience.
v
To learn or develop a skill, habit, or quality.
Morpheme Breakdown
ac
quire
ac
to, towards
quire
to seek, get
Etymology
The word 'acquire' entered English in the 15th century from Old French 'acquerre,' which itself evolved from the Latin verb 'acquirere.' This Latin source is a compound of 'ad-' (meaning "to") and 'quaerere' (meaning "to seek, obtain"). The core semantic logic has remained remarkably consistent: the literal sense of "to seek towards" or "to add to one's possessions by seeking" has evolved into the modern abstract meanings of obtaining something or gaining a skill through directed effort. The root 'quaerere' is also the ancestor of other English words concerning inquiry and quest, such as 'inquire,' 'question,' and 'request.'
Analysis
Structure: ac (to, towards) + quire (to seek, get)
- ac: A prefix of Latin origin (ad-), meaning "to, toward, near." It assimilates to 'ac-' before 'q'.
- quire: A root of Latin origin (quaerere), meaning "to seek, ask, get."
Examples
The company aims to acquire several smaller competitors this year.
Over the years, she has acquired a deep knowledge of local history.
It is important to acquire good study habits early in your academic career.