Procured Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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procured

[prəˈkjʊr ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

business acquisition

To procure means to obtain something, especially with effort or care. It often implies that the item or service is acquired through formal or complex processes, such as purchasing, contracting, or negotiating.

Synonyms

acquire, obtain, secure.

Examples of usage

  • The company procured the necessary materials for production.
  • She procured a rare book from the auction.
  • The government procured supplies for emergency relief efforts.
Context #2 | Verb

legal obtaining

Procured can also refer to the act of securing someone for a particular purpose, often in legal or illicit contexts. This usage implies a more active role in bringing about the situation.

Synonyms

bring in, fetch, obtain.

Examples of usage

  • He was accused of procuring illegal substances.
  • The lawyer procured a witness for the trial.
  • They procured evidence to support their case.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In legal terminology, to procure can mean to persuade someone to engage in an illegal act or transaction.
  • Procurement processes in law often refer to acquiring goods or services under regulation, ensuring that proper guidelines are followed.

Business Practices

  • In business, procurement is a formal process for acquiring goods, services, or works from an external source.
  • Companies often have procurement departments to negotiate terms and ensure they obtain quality resources at the best prices.

Cultural Significance

  • In historical contexts, the ability to procure essential goods like food or weapons often determined a society's survival and power.
  • Experiences of procurement can vary widely across different cultures, where barter and trade systems were prevalent before currency.

Psychology of Acquisition

  • Research shows that feelings of achievement can increase when someone successfully procures a desired item, as it can be linked to self-efficacy.
  • The emotional satisfaction of procuring something can lead to repeated behaviors, reinforcing the desire to acquire more.

Origin of 'procured'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'procurare', which means 'to take care of,' showing its roots in managing or obtaining.
  • In Middle English, 'procured' referred to obtaining something by persuasive means or effort.

The word 'procure' originates from the Latin word 'procurare', meaning 'to take care of, manage', which is a combination of 'pro-' (for) and 'curare' (to care). The usage of 'procure' in English began in the 14th century, initially conveying the meaning of obtaining something through effort or care. Over time, its meanings expanded to encompass both lawful and questionable acquisitions, particularly in business and legal contexts. The evolution of 'procure' illustrates its enduring relevance as societies developed more complex economic transactions and legal systems, emphasizing both the act of acquiring and the care involved in the process.


Word Frequency Rank

At #6,415 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.