Buy
/baɪ/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo obtain possession of something by paying money or something else for it.
/baɪ/
To acquire something in exchange for money or other goods.
I bought a new car.
💡 Simply: To get something by paying for it.
More Examples
She bought him a present.
How It's Used
"I'm going to buy groceries."
"The company bought a new building."
To believe or accept something as true.
/baɪ/
To be persuaded or influenced.
I'm not buying his story.
💡 Simply: To believe or accept.
More Examples
Don't buy into that conspiracy.
How It's Used
"I'm not buying that excuse."
Idioms & expressions
buy into
To believe or accept an idea or explanation.
"I'm not buying into his theory."
From Old English *būgan, meaning "to bend, bow," referring to the bowing of the head in agreement or submission during a transaction. Related to the verb 'bow'.
The word 'buy' has maintained a consistent core meaning throughout history, primarily related to exchange and acquisition, though its figurative uses, such as 'buying time,' have developed over time.
Memory tip
Think of 'bye-bye' to your money when you buy something.
Word Origin
"to bend, bow"