Admires

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To regard someone or something with deep respect and approval | To look upon someone or something with high esteem and admiration | To express a favorable opinion about someone or something through appreciation and reverence
2. To hold a positive regard for someone or something while appreciating their qualities and showing respect for what they represent
3. To view someone or something with high regard and esteem, displaying admiration and a sense of approval

Etymology: The word "admires" is a fascinating extension of the Old French term "esmer," which means to take pleasure in or to be astonished by something. This French origin itself can be traced back to the Latin word "admīrārī," meaning "to wonder at" or "to marvel." The journey of this verb into English began in the late Middle Ages, around the 14th century, when it made its way into the lexicon as "admire," before evolving into its current form. The first recorded use of "admire" in English appears around the year 1380, in a work by the poet Geoffrey Chaucer. This early mention reflects a sense of wonderment and respect, which is consistent with the word's Latin roots. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded, encompassing not just a sense of awe but also a deep appreciation for someone’s qualities, achievements, or beauty. This semantic shift illustrates how the term evolved from mere astonishment to encompass a more nuanced, affectionate regard. As the term transitioned into its modern form, "admires" emerged as the third-person singular present tense of "admire." This grammatical evolution showcases the dynamic nature of English verb conjugation, allowing speakers to express ongoing actions in a more specific way. The transformation from a Latin root through Old French to contemporary English highlights the intricate pathways of linguistic development. In a broader cultural context, the act of admiring something or someone has long been associated with values like respect, love, and appreciation. The enduring nature of this concept reflects humanity's innate tendency to recognize and celebrate excellence, beauty, or virtue in various forms. Thus, "admires" carries with it a sense of connection between individuals and the qualities they hold dear, illustrating the power of language to encapsulate complex human emotions.

Synonyms: appreciates, esteems, respects, adulates, idolizes

Antonyms: disdains, despises, scorns