endear

verb

en·​dear in-ˈdir How to pronounce endear (audio)
en-
endeared; endearing; endears

transitive verb

1
: to cause to become beloved or admired
her generosity has endeared her to the public
2
obsolete : to make higher in cost, value, or estimation

Examples of endear in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This experience endears the customer to the company and deepens the relationship. Shep Hyken, Forbes, 3 Nov. 2024 But keeping a low profile proves difficult as the affable Charles quickly endears himself to his fellow residents. Rick Porter, The Hollywood Reporter, 28 Oct. 2024 Duane Shabazz excels as our forlorn hero, leaning into Juicy’s awkwardness in an earnest way that endears him to the audience. Duante Beddingfield, Detroit Free Press, 25 Oct. 2024 To read these stories is to be forcefully ushered into the home of a friend, to listen to him rant, yet to find his bizarre performance endearing, even lovable. Merve Emre, The New Yorker, 8 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for endear 

Word History

First Known Use

1580, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of endear was in 1580

Dictionary Entries Near endear

Cite this Entry

“Endear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/endear. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

endear

verb
en·​dear in-ˈdi(ə)r How to pronounce endear (audio)
: to cause to become dear or beloved
her generosity has endeared her to the public

More from Merriam-Webster on endear

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!