achievement

noun

achieve·​ment ə-ˈchēv-mənt How to pronounce achievement (audio)
1
: the act of achieving something
the achievement of an ambition
2
a
: a result gained by effort : accomplishment
being honored for her academic achievements
a major scientific achievement
b
: a great or heroic deed
3
: the quality and quantity of a student's work
standardized tests to measure achievement
Choose the Right Synonym for achievement

feat, exploit, achievement mean a remarkable deed.

feat implies strength or dexterity or daring.

an acrobatic feat

exploit suggests an adventurous or heroic act.

his exploits as a spy

achievement implies hard-won success in the face of difficulty or opposition.

her achievements as a chemist

Examples of achievement in a Sentence

The discovery of DNA was a major scientific achievement. It was a great achievement. Getting the project done on time was a real achievement.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Trump also used the remarks to highlight his administration’s achievements. Erin Doherty, CNBC, 24 May 2025 In his rally-style speech, Trump celebrated the achievements of the students, while also lauding his own presidency—including his cracking down on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Rebecca Schneid, Time, 24 May 2025 Leaders must highlight that task achievement is typically a trial-and-error process, ensuring that mistakes are seen as learning opportunities rather than intentional negligence. Esade Business & Law School, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025 Each year, the event highlights outstanding achievements by students and teachers from public and private Encinitas schools. News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for achievement

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Anglo-French achevement, from achever "to achieve" + -ment -ment

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of achievement was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Achievement.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/achievement. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

achievement

noun
achieve·​ment ə-ˈchēv-mənt How to pronounce achievement (audio)
1
: the act of achieving
2
: something achieved

More from Merriam-Webster on achievement

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