Embrace

Definition

Embrace means to hold someone closely in one's arms, especially as a sign of affection, or to accept or adopt something enthusiastically. It can also refer to including or encompassing something as part of a whole.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪmˈbreɪs/
• Respelling: im-BRAYS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪmˈbreɪs/
• Respelling: im-BRAYS

The pronunciation of "embrace" is consistent in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "embrace" comes from the Old French word "embracer," which is derived from "en-" meaning "in" or "into" and "brace" meaning "arms." It was first used in the 14th century to refer to the act of holding someone affectionately in one's arms, and later developed the figurative meaning of accepting or adopting something enthusiastically.

Derivatives

• Embracement (noun)
• Embracer (noun)
• Embracing (verb)
• Re-embrace (verb)
• Unembraced (adjective)

Synonyms

• Hug
• Accept
• Adopt

Antonyms

• Reject
• Exclude
• Abandon

Usage

The word "embrace" is used both literally and figuratively. In a literal sense, it refers to holding someone in your arms, typically as a sign of affection. In a figurative sense, it is often used to describe the act of accepting or adopting an idea, change, or practice with enthusiasm.

Related Terms

• Acceptance: The action of consenting to receive or undertake something offered.
• Adoption: The action of choosing to take up or follow a course of action or practice.
• Include: To make something part of a whole.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To hold closely in one's arms as a sign of affection: Refers to the act of hugging someone.
  • Example: "They embraced each other warmly after a long absence."
• To accept or support something willingly or enthusiastically: Describes the act of adopting an idea, belief, or practice with enthusiasm.
  • Example: "She embraced the opportunity to learn new skills."
• To include or encompass something: Refers to making something part of a larger whole.
  • Example: "The course embraces a wide range of topics."

Noun

• An act of holding someone closely in one's arms: A hug or affectionate gesture.
  • Example: "They shared a long embrace before parting ways."