Langimage
English

embraces

|em-brace-s|

B2

/ɪmˈbreɪsɪz/

(embrace)

hold closely

Base FormPluralPluralPresent3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleNounAdjective
embraceembracersembracementsembracesembracesembracedembracedembracingembracementembraced
Etymology
Etymology Information

'embrace' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'embracer,' where 'en-' meant 'in' and 'brace' meant 'arms.'

Historical Evolution

'embracer' transformed into the Middle English word 'embracen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'embrace.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to clasp in the arms,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'to hold closely' and 'to accept willingly.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to hold someone closely in one's arms, especially as a sign of affection.

She embraces her friend warmly.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to accept or support a belief, theory, or change willingly and enthusiastically.

He embraces new ideas with enthusiasm.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/04/08 06:17