Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
Opportunity \Op`por*tu"ni*ty\, n.; pl. {Opportunities}. [F.
opportunit['e], L. opportunitas. See {Opportune}.]
1. Fit or convenient time; a time or place favorable for
executing a purpose; a suitable combination of conditions;
suitable occasion; chance.
A wise man will make more opportunities than he
finds. --Bacon.
2. Convenience of situation; fitness. [Obs.]
Hull, a town of great strength and opportunity, both
to sea and land affairs. --Milton.
3. Importunity; earnestness. [Obs.] --Jer. Taylor.
Syn: Occasion; convenience; occurrence.
Usage: {Opportunity}, {Occasion}. An occasion is that which
falls in our way, or presents itself in the course of
events; an opportunity is a convenience or fitness of
time, place, etc., for the doing of a thing. Hence,
occasions often make opportunities. The occasion of
sickness may give opportunity for reflection.