Garner

Garner is a verb in English that means to gather, collect, or accumulate something, or to earn or secure as a result of effort. It is commonly applied to abstract nouns such as support, praise, or attention, as in “garnering support” or “garnering praise.” In some contexts it also means to store or set aside resources.

Originating in Middle English from Old French garnir (to furnish, equip), the word entered English with the sense of provisioning and later of gathering or collecting. Its use has broadened to describe the act of accruing tangible or intangible assets over time.

As a surname, Garner is of English origin. Notable people with the surname include James Garner (1928–2014), an American actor known for The Rockford Files and Maverick. Geographic usage includes several places in the United States named Garner, such as Garner, North Carolina, a town in Wake County, and Garner, Iowa, a city in Hancock County.

In modern usage, the verb is common in journalism, politics, and business, where officials and organizations seek to garner votes, support, revenue, or attention. The term remains a versatile, neutral descriptor for the act of collecting or earning something through effort.