Cher"ish (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. [Cherished] (?); p. pr. & vb. n. [Cherising].] [F. ch'erir, fr. cher dear, fr. L. carus. See [Caress], [Finish].]

1.

To treat with tenderness and affection; to nurture with care; to protect and aid.

We were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children. 1 Thess. ii. 7.

2.

To hold dear; to embrace with interest; to indulge; to encourage; to foster; to promote; as, to cherish religious principle.

To cherish virtue and humanity. Burke.

Syn. -- To nourish; foster; nurse; nurture; entertain; encourage; comfort; protect; support; See [Nurture].

© [Webster 1913].

Cherish (definition)