Acquaint

Acquaint is a transitive verb meaning to cause someone to know or be aware of something, or to introduce someone to someone else. It is typically followed by with or to: acquaint someone with the facts or acquaint two people with each other. The form acquaint oneself with means to become familiar with something or learn about it. The usage tends to be formal and is common in writing, instruction, and traditional or literary contexts rather than casual speech.

In practice, acquaint can cover both informing and familiarizing: for example, “The report seeks to acquaint readers with the risks involved” and “Let me acquaint you with the staff.” Its sense of introducing people is closer to arranging a new meeting between individuals, though more casual alternatives such as introduce or meet are often used in everyday language.

Etymology: The word dates to Middle English, with roots in Old French, and has persisted in modern English with the meaning of making known or familiar.

See also: acquaintance, familiarize, familiarize with, introduce, inform.