Achieving

Part of speech: verb

Pronunciation: /əˈt͡ʃiːvɪŋ/

Definitions

1. Successfully reaching a desired objective or completing a task through effort
2. Attaining a particular aim or standard through effort and skill
3. Accomplishing a target or goal by applying effort and ability

Etymology: The English verb comes from Old French "achever," formed from "a" ("to") and "chef" ("head" or "end"). To achieve was originally to bring something to its head, that is, to finish it. That "chef" traces back to Latin "caput," meaning "head," which also gave English "chief" and, through "mes-" ("bad") plus "chief," "mischief," once a word for misfortune. Early English uses were broader and more physical, including obtaining or capturing something. The modern sense, reaching a goal through effort and skill, developed as the word narrowed toward accomplishment that is earned rather than merely completed.

Synonyms: attaining, reaching, accomplishing

Antonyms: failing, losing, giving up