Main Entry: cher·ish

Pronunciation: \ˈcher-ish, ˈche-rish\

Function: transitive verb

Etymology: Middle English cherisshen, from Anglo-French cheriss-, stem of cherir to cherish, from cher dear, from Latin carus — more at charity

Date: 14th century

1 a : to hold dear : feel or show affection for <cherished her friends> b : to keep or cultivate with care and affection : nurture <cherishes his marriage>
2 : to entertain or harbor in the mind deeply and resolutely <still cherishes that memory>

synonyms see appreciate

— cher·ish·able \-i-shə-bəl\ adjective

— cher·ish·er \-i-shər\ noun