from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Cherish \Cher"ish\ (ch[e^]r"[i^]sh), v. t. [imp. & p. p.
{Cherished} (ch[e^]r"[i^]sht); p. pr. & vb. n. {Cherising}.]
[F. ch['e]rir, fr. cher dear, fr. L. carus. See {Caress},
{Finish}.]
1. To treat with tenderness and affection; to nurture with
care; to protect and aid.
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We were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth
her children. --1 Thess. ii.
7.
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2. To hold dear; to embrace with interest; to indulge; to
encourage; to foster; to promote; as, to cherish religious
principle.
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To cherish virtue and humanity. --Burke.
Syn: To nourish; foster; nurse; nurture; entertain;
encourage; comfort; protect; support; See {Nurture}.
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