Nurture: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when talking about promoting growth and development, especially in a caring and attentive way. It often refers to providing emotional and physical care.

• Parents need to nurture their children's talents from a young age.
• She has a gift for nurturing plants in her garden.

Use this word when referring to promoting the development or growth of something, usually over a period of time. It can also mean providing care in a temporary home, as in foster care.

• The government aims to foster innovation through funding and support.
• They decided to foster a child while awaiting adoption.

This word is appropriate when you want to talk about offering assistance, resources, or backing to someone or something. It can refer to both emotional and physical help.

• Friends should support each other during tough times.
• The charity supports homeless people by providing shelter and food.

This word is best used when you want to talk about giving support, confidence, or hope to someone. It often involves inspiring someone to take a specific action or to continue trying.

• Teachers should encourage students to ask questions in class.
• He always encourages his friends to pursue their dreams.

Typically used when referring to caring for someone or something in a way that helps them grow and develop, especially in a protective or supportive manner.

• Parents need to nurture their children to help them grow into well-rounded adults.
• The teacher's main goal is to nurture her students' love of learning.

Often used in the context of agriculture, or when talking about developing a skill, quality, or relationship with care and effort over time.

• Farmers cultivate the land to grow crops.
• It's important to cultivate good habits from a young age.
• He worked hard to cultivate a good relationship with his boss.

Used when talking about encouraging or promoting the growth of something positive, such as a feeling, idea, or relationship. It often implies a nurturing environment.

• Teachers should foster a positive attitude towards learning in their students.
• Community programs can foster a sense of belonging among residents.
• It’s essential to foster innovation in the workplace.

Generally used when talking about growth or advancement in a wide range of areas, such as skills, technology, ideas, or physical growth.

• The company plans to develop a new product line by next year.
• Children develop at different rates, both physically and mentally.
• She took extra courses to develop her computer skills.

Usually appropriate when describing the act of helping someone or something grow and develop over time with attention and care.

• Parents should nurture their children's talents.
• It's important to nurture a plant with the right amount of sunlight and water.

Typically used when referring to the act of looking after someone or something with caution and responsibility.

• She takes great care of her elderly grandmother.
• The nurse provided excellent care to the patients.

Commonly used when offering help or assistance, especially in an emotional, financial, or structural way.

• Her friends were there to support her during difficult times.
• Financial support is needed for this project to succeed.

Usually refers to the process of growth or improvement in a particular area or field.

• The development of new technology has accelerated in recent years.
• Child development is crucial in the early years of education.