win

[[t]wɪn[/t]]

v. won, win•ning, n.

1) to finish first in a race, contest, or the like

2) to succeed by striving or effort (sometimes fol. by out):

His finer nature won out[/ex]

3) to gain the victory; overcome an adversary:

The home team won[/ex]

4) to succeed in reaching (a place, condition, etc.), esp. by great effort:

They won the shore through a violent storm[/ex]

5) to get by effort, as through labor or competition:

She won the post after years of striving[/ex]

6) to gain (a prize, fame, etc.)

7) to be successful in (a game, battle, etc.)

8) to make (one's way), as by effort or ability

9) to attain or reach (a point, goal, etc.)

10) to gain (favor, love, consent, etc.), as by qualities or influence

11) to gain the favor, regard, or adherence of

12) to gain the consent or support of; persuade (often fol. by over):

The speech won them over to our side[/ex]

13) to persuade to marry one

14) a victory, as in a game or horse race

15) spo the position of the competitor who comes in first, esp. in a horse race

Compare place 24), b),show 26)

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Etymology: bef. 900; ME winnen (v.), OE winnan to work, fight, bear, c. OOHG winnan win′na•ble, adj. syn: See gain .