Definition of admirenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb admire contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of admire are esteem, regard, and respect. While all these words mean "to recognize the worth of a person or thing," admire suggests usually enthusiastic appreciation and often deep affection.

a friend that I truly admire

When can esteem be used instead of admire?

The words esteem and admire are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, esteem implies greater warmth of feeling accompanying a high valuation.

no citizen of the town was more highly esteemed

Where would regard be a reasonable alternative to admire?

While in some cases nearly identical to admire, regard is a general term that is usually qualified.

he is highly regarded in the profession

When is respect a more appropriate choice than admire?

While the synonyms respect and admire are close in meaning, respect implies a considered evaluation or estimation.

after many years they came to respect her views

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 admire Charlotte and Bernadette often walk or bike around the city, admiring it. Anna Grace Lee, Vogue, 18 June 2026 Your creativity and confidence are high, and so is your desire to be admired or chosen. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 18 June 2026 Cruise its glassy waters and admire historic structures as well as an amazing spectrum of biodiversity, including bluebreast, gilt, and spotted and Tippecanoe darters. Kelsey Yandura, Midwest Living, 17 June 2026 He is backed by a squad of some of the best players in every position, many of them ten or even fifteen years younger, all of whom admire and adore him. Patricia Marx, New Yorker, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for admire
Recent Examples of Synonyms for admire
Verb
  • Baelor Targaryen Baelor Targaryen (Bertie Carvel) — often called Baelor Breakspear — is a noble and widely respected Targaryen prince known for his honor, leadership and skill in battle.
    Skyler Trepel, PEOPLE, 22 June 2026
  • Watts teaches clients how to fish, respect the lake, to understand seasons, patterns and the importance of stewardship.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 21 June 2026
Verb
  • Since then, Roberts, who will also manage the NL All-Star team, has appreciated how diligent Pages has remained in his routine.
    Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 21 June 2026
  • Throughout his career, he's often found that many families appreciate the perspective a male nanny can bring, particularly when working with young boys.
    Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 21 June 2026
Verb
  • After their convincing wins over Paraguay and Australia that sent them on to the knockout rounds, however, many are starting to readjust their expectations regarding the ceiling of this squad.
    Austin Perry OutKick, FOXNews.com, 20 June 2026
  • The visit is part of Islamabad’s ongoing efforts regarding Iranian-US negotiations, Tasnim reported.
    Caitlin Danaher, CNN Money, 20 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Admire.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/admire. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.

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