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Definition of endear

endear

/ɪnˈdɪr/
en · dear
Adverb:endearingly
•
Adjective:endearing
•
Past Simple:endeared
•
Past Participle:endeared
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Present Participle:endearing
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endear Lexical Profile

endear Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To cause someone or something to become beloved, cherished, or well-liked by another person.

Example

"Her genuine kindness and quick wit quickly endeared her to everyone in the neighborhood."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for endear
Antonyms
View all antonyms for endear

Word Nuance & Usage

"Endear" is a transitive verb that almost always requires the preposition "to" to indicate the person whose affection is won, and is frequently used reflexively (e.g., "endear oneself to someone").

• Rhymes for endear

• Nearby Words

endangered
endangerment
endcap
endear
endearing
endearingly
endearment

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 16th century from the prefix "en-" (meaning to make) and the Old English root "dēore" (dear, precious, or costly). Originally, it also carried the literal sense of raising the monetary price or value of a commodity before settling into its modern emotional meaning.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Endear. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/endear
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