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.
The venerable Finnish textiles, apparel and home furnishings brand Marimekko that has endeared the Japanese market with its lively prints, opened its fourth Tokyo store Friday. Sofia Celeste, WWD, 14 Mar. 2025 By all accounts, Mrs. Kalmus was a strong personality with firm opinions, qualities that did not endear her to art directors, set designers and directors. Thomas Doherty, The Hollywood Reporter, 11 Mar. 2025 Riley maintained the same level of focus while listening to the new book, further endearing him to viewers. Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 3 Mar. 2025 During his Best Director acceptance speech, Baker used his time to endear audiences to him even more, making a battle cry of sorts and encouraging everyone to get their butts back into physical seats at the movie theater. Katherine Singh, refinery29.com, 3 Mar. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Endear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/endear. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

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
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