to take into one's possession (something offered or delivered)

to receive many gifts.

to have (something) bestowed, conferred, etc.

to receive an honorary degree.

to have delivered or brought to one

to receive a letter.

to get or be informed of

to receive instructions; to receive news.

to be burdened with; sustain

to receive a heavy load.

to hold, bear, or contain

The nut receives a bolt and a washer. The plaster receives the impression of the mold.

to take into the mind; apprehend mentally

to receive an idea.

to accept from another by hearing or listening

A priest received his confession.

to meet with; experience

to receive attention.

to suffer the injury of

He received a terrific blow on the forehead.

to be at home to (visitors)

They received their neighbors on Sunday.

to greet or welcome (guests, visitors, etc.) upon arriving

They received us at the front door.

to admit (a person) to a place

The butler received him and asked him to wait in the drawing room.

to admit into an organization, membership, etc.

to receive someone into the group.

to accept as authoritative, valid, true, or approved

a principle universally received.

to react to in the manner specified

to receive a proposal with contempt; She received the job offer with joy.

to receive something.

to receive visitors or guests.

Radio . to convert incoming electromagnetic waves into the original signal.

to receive the Eucharist

He receives every Sunday.