attainments
|at-tain-ments|
/əˈteɪn.mənts/
(attainment)
things achieved; reaching a goal
Etymology
'attainment' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'attaignement', where the verb 'attaindre' (from Old French) meant 'to reach' or 'to attain'.
'attainment' changed from Middle English 'attaignement', borrowed from Old French 'ataignement' (from the verb 'ataindre'/'attaindre'), which in turn comes from Latin elements 'ad-' + 'tangere' (or 'attingere') meaning 'to touch/come to'. Over time the form evolved into the modern English 'attainment'.
Initially it referred to the action of reaching or coming to something (the act of attaining); over time it broadened to include the things achieved or the level of skill/education obtained (current meaning: 'things achieved' or 'levels reached').
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
skills, knowledge, or levels of education achieved (often used in plural to refer to someone's learned abilities or educational results).
The student's attainments in mathematics impressed the admissions committee.
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Noun 2
things that have been achieved or accomplished (general accomplishments or goals reached).
Her professional attainments include several published studies and leadership roles.
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Last updated: 2025/11/14 21:38