Care

Definition

Care is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the process of protecting, looking after, or showing concern for someone or something. As a verb, it means to feel interest, concern, or responsibility towards someone or something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kɛr/
• Respelling: kair

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /keə/
• Respelling: kair

Etymology

The word "care" originates from Old English "caru" or "cearu," meaning "sorrow, anxiety, or concern." It is related to Proto-Germanic "*karō," meaning "lament," and shares cognates in other Germanic languages, such as Old High German "kara" (lament) and Old Norse "kǫr" (care, trouble).

Derivatives

• Careful (adjective)
• Careless (adjective)
• Caring (adjective)
• Caregiver (noun)
• Healthcare (noun)

Synonyms

• Concern
• Protection
• Attention

Antonyms

• Neglect
• Disregard
• Apathy

Usage

The term "care" is used widely in contexts related to health, emotions, and responsibility. For example, "She takes care of her younger siblings," or "He doesn’t seem to care about the outcome."

Related Terms

• Concern: A feeling of worry or interest.
• Support: The act of providing assistance or comfort.
• Responsibility: The state or fact of being accountable for something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The provision of protection, attention, or maintenance: Refers to the act of looking after someone or something to ensure safety, health, or well-being.
  • Example: "She was praised for the care she provided to her patients."
• Serious attention or consideration applied to avoid harm: Used to describe caution taken to ensure safety or prevent errors.
  • Example: "Handle the equipment with care."

Verb

• To feel concern or interest in something: Describes having an emotional investment or interest in an outcome or person.
  • Example: "He genuinely cares about his community."
• To look after or provide for someone: Indicates providing assistance or attention, especially for someone in need.
  • Example: "She cares for her elderly parents."