embrace 1 of 2

Definition of embracenext
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embrace

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb embrace differ from other similar words?

The words adopt and espouse are common synonyms of embrace. While all three words mean "to take an opinion, policy, or practice as one's own," embrace implies a ready or happy acceptance.

embraced the customs of their new homeland

When could adopt be used to replace embrace?

The meanings of adopt and embrace largely overlap; however, adopt implies accepting something created by another or foreign to one's nature.

forced to adopt new policies

Where would espouse be a reasonable alternative to embrace?

The synonyms espouse and embrace are sometimes interchangeable, but espouse adds an implication of close attachment to a cause and a sharing of its fortunes.

espoused the cause of women's rights

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of embrace
Verb
Today, the modern interpretation embraces natural texture with a softer, more wearable finish. Amanda Le, InStyle, 25 June 2026 Lastly, embrace a growth mindset, viewing challenges as opportunities for learning and development. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
Noun
The pilot program is a part of the city’s recent embrace of the cannabis industry, which is now among the Sacramento’s top 10 employment sectors, with about 8,000 workers. Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026 After breaking free of his mobbing teammates, Reyna ran to the sideline and locked in an emotional embrace with Pochettino, the coach who gave him a second chance, who blocked out the noise as well. Mark Zeigler, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for embrace
Recent Examples of Synonyms for embrace
Verb
  • The body-hugging jean aligns with the viral phenomenon centered on maximizing physical attractiveness through deliberate changes to appearance, grooming, fitness, style and medical procedures.
    Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 24 June 2026
  • So the glasses hug your face without adding pressure to the nasal bridge or behind the ears.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • This 12-inch pan is tri-ply, meaning an aluminum core is wrapped in dual layers of stainless steel.
    Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 23 June 2026
  • Silky tannins are wrapped around flavors of blackberry, black currant, crushed violet petal, and cherry, with a closing note of clove.
    Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • The board also adopted a four-year strategic plan with academic targets and measures of college, career and social-emotional readiness.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 24 June 2026
  • The Sacramento County Office of Education is expected to review and approve the budget before the state adopts its final budget in July.
    Camryn Dadey, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • This year, the camp welcomed 54 campers.
    Conor McGill, CBS News, 27 June 2026
  • Buying a house felt like a commitment to building a future in a community that welcomed us.
    Cassandra Tresl, CNBC, 27 June 2026
Verb
  • Foreign rescue teams — including three from the United States — were racing against time in the aftermath of twin earthquakes that rocked Venezuela's northern coast as the death toll from the disaster increased, officials said.
    Marc Ramirez, USA Today, 29 June 2026
  • That includes the 2013 Supreme Court decision that allowed states and counties with a history of discriminatory voting rules to make changes without prior approval from the Department of Justice.
    Gary Fields, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2026
Verb
  • Even with the agreement, many of the details surrounding taxpayer services during the Olympics and Paralympics will remain unresolved for at least a year.
    David Zahniser, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2026
  • The golden generation of American men — Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams and the rest of the Group D winning crew — live and surrounded by red, white and blue in the home of the red and gold.
    Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 26 June 2026
Noun
  • Last year, voters showed a growing acceptance of the horror genre by awarding Oscars to Sinners and Weapons.
    Sophia Morano, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026
  • That wistful undertow stems from Zimmerman’s casual acceptance of his advancing age.
    Stephen Thomas Erlewine, Pitchfork, 22 June 2026
Noun
  • And France still had a major continental foothold in Louisiana, together with its hugely profitable sugar islands in the Caribbean.
    David Armitage, Washington Post, 26 June 2026
  • By the time authorities officially declared an outbreak in May, the virus had already gained a foothold.
    Greg Dixon, NPR, 24 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Embrace.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/embrace. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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