ap·pre·ci·ate
(ə-prḗshē-āt́)
[Late Latin appretiāre, appretiāt-, to appraise; see appraise.]
verb: -at·ed, -at·ing, -ates.
transitive verb
- To recognize the quality, significance, or magnitude of: appreciated their freedom.
- To be fully aware of or sensitive to; realize: I appreciate your problems.
- To be thankful or show gratitude for: I really appreciate your help.
- To admire greatly; value.
- To raise in value or price, especially over time.
intransitive verb
- To increase in value or price, especially over time.
derivatives
- ap·préci·átor
- noun
- ap·précia·tóry
- adjective
synonyms:
appreciate, value, prize1esteem, treasure, cherish These verbs mean to have a highly favorable opinion of someone or something. Appreciate applies especially to high regard based on critical assessment, comparison, and judgment: As immigrants, they appreciated their newfound freedom. Value implies high regard for the importance or worth of the object: “In principle, the modern university values . . . the free exchange of ideas . . .” (Eloise Salholz) Prize often suggests pride of possession: “the nonchalance prized by teen-agers” (Elaine Louie) Esteem implies respect: “If he had never esteemed my opinion before, he would have thought highly of me then” (Jane Austen) Treasure and cherish stress solicitous care and affectionate regard: We treasure our freedom. “They seek out the Salish Indian woman . . . to learn the traditions she cherishes” (Tamara Jones)
