Cher·ish v. t. [imp. & p. p. Cherished p. pr. & vb. n. Cherising.]
  1. To treat with tenderness and affection; to nurture with care; to protect and aid.
     We were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children.   --1 Thess. ii. 7.
  2. To hold dear; to embrace with interest; to indulge; to encourage; to foster; to promote; as, to cherish religious principle.
     To cherish virtue and humanity.   --Burke.
  Syn: -- To nourish; foster; nurse; nurture; entertain; encourage; comfort; protect; support; See Nurture.
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  cherished
       adj 1: characterized by feeling or showing fond affection for; "a
              cherished friend"; "children are precious"; "a
              treasured heirloom"; "so good to feel wanted" [syn: precious,
               treasured, wanted]
       2: thought of and clung to fondly or reverentially [syn: held
          dear(p)]