liken

verb

lik·​en ˈlī-kən How to pronounce liken (audio)
likened; likening ˈlī-kə-niŋ How to pronounce liken (audio)
ˈlīk-niŋ

transitive verb

: to represent as similar : compare

Examples of liken in a Sentence

he generally likened a root canal to some horrible form of torture I think that we can liken the two pianists, at least in terms of natural talent.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Kid Cudi likens Diddy to 'Marvel supervillain' After finding out about Mescudi and Ventura Fine's romance, the pair alleges that Combs became enraged. Jay Stahl, USA Today, 23 May 2025 Frazier likened current Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau to Holzman, whose NBA coaching career ended in 1982, the year I was born. Alex Sherman, CNBC, 22 May 2025 Many participants likened their experience to those of historical and scriptural figures. Michael Pollan, New Yorker, 19 May 2025 Defender Kayla Sharples, who had a standout performance defensively, likened it to a chess match. Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 17 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for liken

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of liken was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Liken.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/liken. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

liken

verb
lik·​en ˈlī-kən How to pronounce liken (audio)
likened; likening ˈlīk-(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce liken (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on liken

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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