EnglishMain Dictionary
acquire
Universal Words
verb [VN] (formal)
1 to gain sth by your own efforts, ability or behaviour:
She has acquired a good knowledge of English. * How long will it take to acquire the necessary skills? * He has acquired a reputation for dishonesty. * I have recently acquired a taste for olives.
2 to obtain sth by buying or being given it:
The company has just acquired new premises. * How did the gallery come to acquire so many Picassos? * I've suddenly acquired a stepbrother.
IDIOMS
an acquired taste a thing that you do not like much at first but gradually learn to like:
Abstract art is an acquired taste.
