rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryaimDirecting toward a target
verb / noun

aim

AYM/eɪm/

The direction of an action toward an intended target.

The archer aims the bow toward the circular target downrange.

Young athlete focuses effort on archery target, bow aimed safely downrange with visible circular target, no text.
Etymology
aimLatinto appraise, estimate

From aestimare, “to estimate,” aim apparently developed through calculating with a view to action, then planning and directing. The modern sense retains that orientation toward an intended result.

In context

SOAS University of London30:44
a police abolitionist perspective of course would aim its sight on defunding the police with the goal of redistributing resources and abolishing policing as we know it now
Abolitionist Human Rights (fifth annual Kay Everett Memorial Lecture)

More examples

  • His aim was steady despite the wind.
  • The program's main aim is to improve adult literacy.
  • We aim to finish the repairs before winter.

Forms

aim · aims · aimed · aiming

aimless adjective — Lacking a clear purpose or direction.

Similar words

goal
Names the desired outcome rather than the act of directing.
target
Names what an action is directed toward, literally or figuratively.