embrace 1 of 2

Definition of embracenext
1
2
3
4
5
6

embrace

2 of 2

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

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
Facelifts, previously a rarefied surgery for the over-60s crowd, have been embraced by those under 40 and even 30. Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 2 Apr. 2026 While the cellphone debate continues in Springfield, local districts are still embracing edtech to the chagrin of many parents. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 2 Apr. 2026
Noun
Think saturated makeup, carefree styling, and an unapologetic embrace of all things vintage. Amanda Le, InStyle, 1 Apr. 2026 The two say goodbye and embrace, almost sharing a kiss. Madeleine Janz, PEOPLE, 1 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for embrace
Recent Examples of Synonyms for embrace
Verb
  • The couple hugged, burying their faces in each other’s shoulders.
    Justin Jouvenal, Washington Post, 1 Apr. 2026
  • Bay Harbor consists of two islands hugging the Broad Causeway, which stretches just west of Bal Harbour to North Miami.
    Catherine Odom, Miami Herald, 31 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Keep it light and clever, yet commit to a piece long enough to actually wrap it, whether that means editing your podcast or rehearsing your lines once.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 1 Apr. 2026
  • During warm-ups on Tuesday, Donovan Sebrango appeared to have been the only Panthers player to wrap rainbow tape onto his hockey stick.
    Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 1 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • During Easter, Berman cautions adults not to impulsively adopt a bunny for children who may not be committed to caring for them long-term.
    Sharon Chin, CBS News, 2 Apr. 2026
  • Into the garbage went one man’s Bible, eyeglasses, clothes and photos of his sister and the mom who adopted him.
    Carol Marbin Miller, Miami Herald, 2 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Visitors are quickly welcomed into this respectful rhythm, and that’s where Costa Rica’s transformative power begins.
    Meghan Palmer, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Mar. 2026
  • Faith amid the dip While some churchgoers puzzle over what to make of crypto, Renee has found that at least one pulpit is welcoming.
    Bracey Harris, NBC news, 28 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Other tips include riding defensively around cars, using front and rear lights, wearing reflective vests in the dark, and avoiding biking under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
    Sarah Raza, Chicago Tribune, 30 Mar. 2026
  • Some Brookhill attractions include Inner Peaks Climbing Center, an indoor rock-climbing facility, Puttery, an indoor mini-golf bar for adults and bars such as Pins Mechanical, a social spot with a retro arcade and other games.
    Chase Jordan March 30, Charlotte Observer, 30 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Video showed police forming a barrier between plainclothes ICE officers and surrounding crowds.
    Eduardo Cuevas, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2026
  • One skeleton estimated at 10,000–12,000 years old was surrounded by evidence of bonfires, possibly indicating funerary rituals involving light.
    Ryan Brennan April 4, Miami Herald, 4 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • However, formal mindfulness meditation involves sustained practice that systematically trains attention and acceptance.
    J. David Creswell, The Conversation, 31 Mar. 2026
  • Grocery Hub is working on getting SNAP EBT card acceptance back at the location and intends to implement a customer loyalty program, Hussein said.
    Cheryl V. Jackson, IndyStar, 31 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The technology is more common in Europe but finding a foothold in the United States as snowfall has become less reliable.
    Evan Bush, NBC news, 27 Mar. 2026
  • How to stand out Kelly hoped to turn his job fair conversations into a foothold in the industry.
    Wilborn P. Nobles III, Dallas Morning News, 26 Mar. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Embrace.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/embrace. Accessed 4 Apr. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on embrace

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster