aim

²aim

noun

Definition of AIM

1

obsolete : mark, target

2

a : the pointing of a weapon at a mark <take careful aim> b : the ability to hit a target <a shooter with good aim> c : a weapon's accuracy or effectiveness <the gun's aim is off>

3

obsolete a : conjecture, guess b : the directing of effort toward a goal

4

: a clearly directed intent or purpose <our aim is to win>

— aim·less \-ləs\ adjective

— aim·less·ly adverb

— aim·less·ness noun

Examples of AIM

1. a political movement whose aim is to promote world peace
2. Our ultimate aim is to create something of lasting value.
3. The book has two basic aims.
4. She was unable to achieve her aims.
5. I started this business with the aim of making a profit.
6. He fired at the target but his aim was off and he missed.

First Known Use of AIM

14th century

Related to AIM

Synonyms: goal, ambition, aspiration, bourne (also bourn), design, dream, end, idea, ideal, intent, intention, mark, meaning, object, objective, plan, point, pretension, purpose, target, thing

Related Words: grail, holy grail; plot, project, scheme; desire, hope, mind, wish; nirvana; destination, terminus

Near Antonyms: means, method, way

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See Synonym Discussion at intention