Gain

/ɡeɪn/

Meaning & Definition

noun

an increase or improvement in something

The gain in sales this quarter exceeded expectations.

a benefit or advantage that is obtained

Her hard work resulted in a substantial gain in her skills.

a profit or return on investment

Investors were pleased with the gain from their stocks.

verb

to acquire or obtain something, especially through effort or experience

She worked hard to gain the respect of her peers.

to increase in amount, number, or degree

The company hopes to gain more market share this year.

to obtain an advantage or benefit

He used the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge.

Middle English, from Old French 'gaigner', from Latin 'capaniare', meaning to catch.

gain ground

to make progress or advance.

gain someone's trust

to earn someone’s confidence.

gain the upper hand

to get an advantage in a situation.

profit

the financial gain, especially the difference between the amount earned and the amount spent.

loss

the state of no longer having something, often resulting in a disadvantage.

to make a profit or come out ahead.

If you sell your old games, you can gain some cash.

to achieve or acquire something of value.

I really gained a lot during my internship.