English Lexicon

Nurture

/ˈnɜːr.tʃər/
verbnounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #3450 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    The process of caring for and encouraging the growth or development of someone or something.

    "The nurture of children is essential for their emotional and intellectual development."
As verb
  1. 1

    To care for and encourage the growth or development of.

    "Parents nurture their children by providing love and support."

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Synonyms (3)
Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the Middle English word 'nurturen', originating from Old French 'nourriture' (nourishment), and ultimately from the Latin 'nutrire' meaning to suckle or nourish. Over centuries, the meaning broadened from physical feeding and rearing to the cultivation, encouragement, and mental development of living things or ideas.

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