/ ˈpɜːtʃəs; NAmE ˈpɜːrtʃəs/ noun , verb
■ noun ( formal )
1.
[ U , C ] the act or process of buying sth :
to make a purchase (= buy sth)
Keep your receipt as proof of purchase .
The company has just announced its £27 million purchase of Park Hotel.
—see also hire purchase
2.
[ C ] something that you have bought :
major purchases, such as a new car
If you are not satisfied with your purchase we will give you a full refund.
3.
[ U , sing. ] ( technical ) a firm hold on sth with the hands or feet, for example when you are climbing
SYN grip :
She tried to get a purchase on the slippery rock.
■ verb
[ vn ] purchase sth (from sb) ( formal ) to buy sth :
The equipment can be purchased from your local supplier.
They purchased the land for $1 million.
( figurative )
Victory was purchased (= achieved) at too great a price.
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WORD ORIGIN
Middle English : from Old French pourchacier seek to obtain or bring about, the earliest sense also in English, which soon gave rise to the senses gain and buy .