obtainv. t.[F. obtenir, L. obtinere; ob (see Ob-) + tenere to hold. See Tenable.]()1. To hold; to keep; to possess.()His mother, then, is mortal, but his Sire
He who obtains the monarchy of heaven. (Milton.)2. To get hold of by effort; to gain possession of; to procure; to acquire, in any way.()Some pray for riches; riches they obtain. (Dryden.)By guileful fair words peace may be obtained. (Shak.)It may be that I may obtain children by her. (Gen. xvi. 2.)()v. i.1. To gain or have a firm footing; to be recognized or established; to become prevalent or general; to prevail; as, the custom obtains of going to the seashore in summer.()Sobriety hath by use obtained to signify temperance in drinking. (Jer. Taylor.)The Theodosian code, several hundred years after Justinian's time, did obtain in the western parts of Europe. (Baker.)2. To prevail; to succeed.(Evelyn.)So run that ye may obtain. (1 Cor. ix. 24.)There is due from the judge to the advocate, some commendation, where causes are fair pleaded; especially towards the side which obtaineth not. (Bacon.)