Nourish: meaning, definitions and examples
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nourish
[ ˈnʌrɪʃ ]
food
To provide with the food or other substances necessary for growth, health, and good condition.
Synonyms
feed, nurture, strengthen, support, sustain.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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nourish |
Used when talking about providing the necessary substances for growth and health, often in a metaphorical or emotional sense.
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feed |
Used in the context of giving food to a person or animal, typically in a straightforward, physical sense.
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sustain |
Used when talking about maintaining something at a certain level or providing what is needed for it to continue, often over a long period.
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nurture |
Used when talking about caring for and encouraging the growth or development of someone or something, especially in an emotional or educational sense.
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support |
Used when offering assistance or backing to someone or something, either physically, emotionally, or financially.
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strengthen |
Used when discussing making something stronger or more powerful, often referring to muscles, relationships, or structures.
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Examples of usage
- He believes in nourishing the body with natural and organic foods.
- She nourishes her plants with regular watering and fertilizing.
- The mother nourishes her baby with breast milk.
- The chef nourishes his customers with delicious and nutritious meals.
- We should nourish our bodies with a balanced diet.
Etymology
The word 'nourish' originated from the Latin word 'nutrire', meaning 'to feed, nourish, support, preserve'. The term has been used in English since the 14th century, evolving from its Latin roots to represent the act of providing sustenance or support for growth and health. Over the centuries, the concept of nourishment has expanded to include not only physical food but also emotional, mental, and spiritual sustenance.