obtain

[uhb-teyn] / əbˈteɪn /

VERB

get, acquire

Synonyms

STRONGEST

access achieve attain collect earn gain gather glean have pick up procure purchase reach realize reap receive recover retrieve secure seize take win

STRONG

accomplish annex capture compass cop corral effect fetch grab hoard inherit invade nab occupy pocket salvage save score snag wangle

WEAK

beg borrow or steal chalk up come by drum up get at get hold of get one's hands on gobble up lay up make use of scrape together scrape up

Antonyms

STRONGEST

disperse distribute divide fail forfeit free give give up let go lose miss misunderstand offer plant release scatter spend throw away

STRONG

endanger harm hurt squander surrender waste yield

WEAK

forsake sacrifice

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Guns are tightly regulated in Connecticut, where buyers must first obtain a permit.

From Salon • Jun. 2, 2026

Young mice are easier and less expensive to obtain, while aged mice require long term care and breeding.

From Science Daily • May 31, 2026

Authorities will also need to obtain state legislative approval for the plan.

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2026

The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, also fought in court to obtain them.

From BBC • May 27, 2026

“Ah, I thought not. Sorry, no offense. I’ll just make do with some bark and a burnt twig. Where could I obtain such things, please?”

From "Redwall" by Brian Jacques

Vocabulary lists containing obtain

The Vocabulary.com Top 1000

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Essential English Vocabulary, List 1

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100 SAT words Beginning with "O"

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