Arrive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🛬

Add to dictionary

arrive

[əˈraɪv ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

travel

To reach a destination, especially at the end of a journey. To come to a place, especially after a long or difficult journey. To reach a decision or agreement by discussion or negotiation.

Synonyms

attain, come, get to, reach.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
arrive	Used when someone physically comes to a location, especially emphasizing the completion of a journey. We arrived at the airport just in time. The guests have arrived at the wedding.
reach	Used to emphasize the completion of a journey or the process of arriving at a certain point, both physically and metaphorically. We finally reached the summit after a long climb. After years of hard work, she reached the pinnacle of her career.
get to	Informal phrase often used to describe physically reaching a place or being able to do something. We need to get to the station by 7 PM. I can't wait to get to meet you.
come	A general term for moving towards a location, often informal and widely used in conversation. Can you come to my house tomorrow? Spring will come soon.
attain	Used when someone achieves a goal or reaches a certain level, often through effort or skill. She attained first place in the competition. He finally attained his dream of becoming a doctor.

Examples of usage

I will arrive at the airport at 3 PM.
We arrived in Paris after a long flight.
After hours of debate, they finally arrived at a compromise.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

Various cultures have rituals that celebrate the 'arrival' of important figures, like weddings or new seasons.
In Japan, there's a custom of welcoming home family members with a warm meal, emphasizing the joy of arrival.
Holiday traditions often include the 'arrival' of special guests, like Santa Claus during Christmas.

Psychology

The moment of 'arriving' can induce feelings of relief and satisfaction, especially after a long journey.
Studies show anticipation of arrival can heighten excitement compared to the event itself.
Being punctual demonstrates respect for others’ time, impacting social perceptions positively.

Pop Culture

Movies often depict significant moments of arrival, such as heroes returning home or the climax reveals.
In music, many songs celebrate the theme of arrival, portraying feelings of coming home or reaching dreams.
Television shows frequently dramatize arrivals to enhance emotional impact during crucial character moments.

Science

In biology, organisms 'arrive' at different habitats during migration, influencing ecosystems and species interactions.
Astrophysics considers the 'arrival' of light from distant stars, allowing us to study the universe's history.
Technology innovations aim to reduce travel time, changing how we perceive the concept of arriving somewhere.

Origin of 'arrive'

Main points about word origin

The word 'arrive' comes from the Latin word 'arripare', meaning 'to reach' or 'to come ashore'.
In Old French, the term was 'ariver', used in relation to ships reaching the shore.
The earliest usage in English dates back to the 14th century, primarily related to arrival by sea.

The word 'arrive' originated from the Middle English word 'ariven', which came from Old French 'arriver', ultimately from the Latin 'ad-' (to) + 'ripare' (to reach the shore). The concept of arrival has been essential throughout human history, marking the completion of journeys, the attainment of goals, and the start of new chapters.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,519, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

...
3516 flower
3517 genetic
3518 desires
3519 arrive
3520 cooperative
3521 appeals
3522 replacement
...