noun

attainment

uh-TAYN-munt/əˈteɪnmənt/

The achievement of a desired result.

The climber raises both arms to celebrate the attainment of a goal.

A climber stands on the final summit of a steep rocky peak, raising both arms in triumph beside a small summit cairn.

Etymology

atLatinto, toward

+tainLatinto touch

+mentFrenchaction or result

The underlying image is touching or reaching something. Attainment turns that physical reaching into the achievement of a goal through effort, and can also name the accomplishment gained.

In context

Wikipedia Fan23:05

Hitler stated that Bismarck's attainment of Kleindeutschland was the "highest achievement" Bismarck could have achieved "within the limits possible at that time".

Nazi | Wikipedia audio article

More examples

Regular practice supports the attainment of new skills.
The report tracks educational attainment across the state.
The attainment of our fundraising goal means the shelter can expand.

Forms

attainment · attainments

attain verb — To reach a desired goal or level.

attainable adjective — Able to be reached or achieved.

Similar words

achievement: Often emphasizes the successful result rather than reaching it.
accomplishment: Often names a completed task or noteworthy personal success.
realization: Emphasizes making a hope or plan become reality.