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.

 ◄ ►


 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)]