Definition of procure

The word "procure" originated from the Middle English verb "prochuren," which itself was derived from the Old French word "procurer" meaning "to take care of ahead of time" or "to provide for in advance." The meaning of the word gradually shifted over time. In the 14th century, "procure" began to be used to describe the act of acquiring something through appropriate means, such as buying, selling, or negotiating. This meaning was influenced by the Latin word "procurare," which meant "to manage, provide for, or administer." By the time it reached Early Modern English, the term "procure" had taken on a variety of meanings, including "to carry out" and "to accomplish through effort." This versatility contributed to the word's general use today, which encompasses various actions taken to acquire or secure something desired, whether by buying, obtaining consent, or exerting some degree of influence, though these connotations may also depend on context.