Definition of likennext
1
as in to compare
to describe as similar he generally likened a root canal to some horrible form of torture

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2
as in to equate
to regard or represent as equal or comparable I think that we can liken the two pianists, at least in terms of natural talent

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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 liken Justifying his decision to lend Great Britain warships and other military supplies in the early days of World War II, Roosevelt likened it to loaning a neighbor a garden hose to put out the fire consuming his house. Jonathan Lemire, The Atlantic, 21 Jan. 2026 Hamilton even likened Bonnington to a brother. Luke Smith, New York Times, 16 Jan. 2026 DaCosta likens the actions of Jimmy and his acolytes to those of Major Henry West (Christopher Eccleston) and his soldiers, who turned to enslaving and raping women in the wake of society's collapse in the first movie. Megan McCluskey, Time, 16 Jan. 2026 The astronomers behind a new study of these stars likened the stars' environment to a cosmic kitchen. Elizabeth Howell, Space.com, 14 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for liken
Recent Examples of Synonyms for liken
Verb
  • The researchers examined genetic markers linked to how the body processes sugar, then used a technique called Mendelian randomisation to compare disease rates in people who were genetically predisposed to higher blood glucose.
    Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 29 Jan. 2026
  • Kafka compared it to descending into the cold abyss of oneself.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 29 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The executive who grew up on the streets of Detroit watching his dad drag race equated the current situation to that of a station wagon and enthusiasts.
    Joel Feder, The Drive, 8 Jan. 2026
  • Without institutional support, parents are left with a narrative of drudgery—one that equates children with the loss of time, money, and opportunity.
    Lauren Hilgers, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Liken.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/liken. Accessed 1 Feb. 2026.

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