Cher"ish (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Cherished (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Cherising.] [F. ch'erir, fr. cher dear, fr. L. carus. See Caress, Finish.] 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.
© Webster 1913. | 
