purchase

Definition

The acquisition of title to, or property in, anything for a price; buying for money or its equivalent.

Etymology

From Middle English purchasen, from Anglo-Norman purchacer (“seek to obtain”) from pur- (from Latin pro-) + chac(i)er (“to chase, pursue”). Compare Old French porchacier (“to follow, to chase”), which has given French pourchasser (“to chase without relent”).

Example Sentences

• "They offer a free hamburger with the purchase of a drink."
• "He was pleased with his latest purchase."
• "[Said by a shopkeeper] I really don't think you can carry any more purchases. You can come again after you sell something, or you can simply discard an item to lighten your load. Or, you might want to sell the things you don't need here!"

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