accustom

verb

ac·​cus·​tom ə-ˈkə-stəm 

accustomed; accustoming; accustoms

transitive verb

: to make familiar with something through use or experience

accustomation

ə-ˌkə-stə-ˈmā-shən 

noun

Synonyms

• acquaint
• familiarize
• initiate
• introduce
• orient
• orientate

Examples of accustom in a Sentence

the task of accustoming new recruits to shipboard life

Recent Examples on the Web

Far more important than level of playing ability is the sport provides an opportunity to be with fellow veterans in a team setting, which is something they were accustomed in the military. —Tom Layberger, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024

That means that to profit and not cannibalize console and PC sales, publishers need to sell games for much higher up-front costs than mobile players are accustomed to. —Ars Technica, 18 Dec. 2024

Use a Well-Draining Soil Jasmines are tropical plants that are accustomed to moist soil and a humid environment. —Lauren David, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Dec. 2024

Under Dan Quinn, Washington has displayed much greater effort and execution than the team’s long-suffering fans are accustomed to. —Dan Pompei, The Athletic, 24 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English acustomen "to habituate (reflexive or intransitive)," borrowed from Anglo-French acustumer, acostumer, from a-, prefix forming transitive verbs (going back to Latin ad- ad-) + -customer, costomer, verbal derivative of custume custom entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing accustom

• accustom oneself to

Kids Definition

accustom

verb

ac·​cus·​tom ə-ˈkəs-təm 

: to make familiar