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.
This crackdown is considered a significant development in Sheinbaum’s campaign against corruption and has won the support of 70% of Mexicans, according to a survey by Enkoll for El País newspaper and W Radio, even though many experts liken progress so far to a drop in the ocean. Michael Rios, CNN Money, 5 Oct. 2025 He's posted a video likening it to the Grim Reaper. Ivan Pereira, ABC News, 3 Oct. 2025 However, Peters likens Ingram to former Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper, who provided steady netminding in helping the Colorado Avalanche win the Stanley Cup in 2022. Daniel Nugent-Bowman, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025 Some users, however, caught on to the awkward exchange during the broadcast without realizing Monica is Taylor's wife, and likened the clip to former Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and HR executive Kristin Cabot's viral kiss cam scandal at one of Coldplay's Boston shows in July. Natasha Dye, PEOPLE, 30 Sep. 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 7 Oct. 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

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