v.tr. 1 gain by and for oneself; obtain. 2 come into possession of (acquired fame; acquired much property). acquired characteristic Biol. a characteristic caused by the environment, not inherited. acquired immune deficiency syndrome Med. see AIDS. acquired taste 1 a liking gained by experience. 2 the object of such a liking. acquirable adj.
[ ME f. OF aquerre ult. f. L acquirere (as AC-, quaerere seek) ]