tr.v. pur·chased, pur·chas·ing, pur·chas·es 1. To obtain in exchange for money or its equivalent; buy. 2. To acquire by effort; earn: purchased the victory with the loss of many lives. 3. To pull or haul by means of a mechanical device, such as a winch. n. 1. a. The act or an instance of buying: the sudden purchase of a car. b. Something bought: That hat was a wise purchase. 2. a. A hold or position that allows the application of power, as in moving something: got a purchase for her foot and climbed up. b. A device, such as a pulley, used to obtain mechanical advantage. c. A means or advantage that allows the increase of power or influence. [Middle English purchasen, to pursue, purchase, from Old French purchacier : pur-, forth (from Latin prō-; see per1 in the Appendix of Indo-European roots) + chacier, to chase; see CHASE1.] purchas·er n. |
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