vbl. sb. [f. ACQUIRE v. + -ING1.]
1. The action of gaining or obtaining for oneself; gaining possession.
1656. trans. Hobbes, Elem. Philos., 14 (1839). For the acquiring of philosophy.
1660. R. Coke, Power & Subj., 264. How fraile a mans reason and understanding is, even to the acquiring of things necessary for his preservation.
1878. M. L. Holbrook, Hygiene of the Brain, 41. There is a limit to our acquiring power.
2. The thing gained or obtained for oneself; acquirement, acquisition.
1630. Naunton, Fragm. Reg., 27 (1870). The King in honour could doe no lesse, than give back to his Son … the acquirings of his Fathers profession.
1828. Carlyle, Misc., I. 205 (1857). Infinite longings and small acquirings.
