aim
(verb, noun)
past tense: aimed
LISTEN
Aim means ‘to direct an object toward a target.’
- William Tell aimed the arrow at the apple.
- The baseball pitcher aimed the ball at the strike zone.
Aim also means ‘to direct an effort toward a goal.’
- Our store aims to please our customers.
- The lawyer aimed his remarks at the jury.
An aim is a purpose or goal.
- The new manager's aim is to increase sales without raising expenses.
Common uses
Take aim at means ‘to point a weapon at.’ Example: “The hunter took aim at the deer.” But it can also mean ‘to direct efforts to.’ Example: “The prosecutor took aim at all the gang-related cases.”
Did you know?
Ready, aim, fire is a command that soldiers are given when they are shooting at a target. First they get in position; then they aim at their target; and finally, they shoot.
In pop culture
Listen to the song “Shoot High, Aim Low,” by the band Yes:
There are other meanings of aim.
Word of the Day is released Monday through Friday.
