PUR'CHASE, v.t. [This word seems to be considered by Blackstone as formed from the L. perquisitio. This is an error. The word is from the root of chase; purchaser is to pursue to the end or object, and hence to obtain. In Law Latin, purchase, the noun, was written purchacium. The legal use of the word in obtaining writs, shows best its true origin; to purchase a writ, is to sue out a writ, that is, to seek it out; for sue, seek, and L. sequor, are all of one origin, and synonymous with chase.] 1. In its primary and legal sense, to gain, obtain or acquire by any means, except by descent or hereditary right.2. In common usage, to buy; to obtain property by paying an equivalent in money. It differs from barter only in the circumstance, that in purchasing, the price or equivalent given or secured is money; in bartering,the equivalent is given in goods. We purchase lands or goods for ready money or on credit.3. To obtain by an expense of labor, danger or other sacrifice; as, to purchase favor with flattery. A world who would not purchase with a bruise?4. To expiate or recompense by a fine or forfeit; as, to purchase out abuses with tears and prayer.5. To sue out or procure, as a writ.PUR'CHASE, v.i. In seaman's language, to draw in ; as, the capstern purchases apace, that is, it draws in the cable apace, it gains it. PUR'CHASE, n. 1. In law, the act of obtaining or acquiring the title to lands and tenements by money, deed, gift or any means, except by descent; the acquisition of lands and tenements by a man's own act or agreement.2. In law, the suing out and obtaining a writ.3. In common usage, the acquisition of the title or property of any thing by rendering an equivalent in money. It is foolish to lay out money in the purchase of repentance.4. That which is purchased; any thing of which the property is obtained by giving an equivalent price in money. The scrip was complete evidence of his right in the purchase.5. That which is obtained by labor, danger, art, &c. A beauty waning and distressed widow Made prize and purchase of his wanton eye--6. Formerly, robbery, and the thing stolen.7. Any mechanical power or force applied to the raising or removing of heavy bodies. |
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In celebration of Noah Webster's Birthday (October 16, 2009), we have prepared an updated website. 
