Chēr'ish, v. t.

v. t. [imp. & p. p. CHERISHED; p. pr. & vb. n. CHERISHING.] [Fr. chérir, from cher, dear, the same as the Lat. carus. Cf. CARESS.] 1. To treat with tenderness and affection; to nurture with care; to foster. “That love which thou hast vowed to cherish.” Shak. We were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherished her children. 1 Thess. ii. 7. 2. To hold dear; to embrace with interest; to indulge; to encourage; as, to cherish religious principle; to cherish ill-will. “To cherish virtue and humanity.” Burke. Syn. — To nourish; foster; nurse; entertain; encourage; comfort; support. See NOURISH.