v. ad·mired, ad·mir·ing, ad·mires v.tr. 1. To regard with pleasure, wonder, and approval: admired the sculptures at the art museum. 2. To have a high opinion of; esteem or respect: I admired her ability as a violinist. 3. Chiefly New England & Upper Southern US To enjoy (something): "I just admire to get letters, but I don't admire to answer them" (Dialect Notes). 4. Archaic To marvel or wonder at. v.intr. New England & Upper Southern US To marvel at something. Often used with at. [French admirer, from Old French amirer, from Latin admīrārī, to wonder at : ad-, ad- + mīrārī, to wonder (from mīrus, wonderful; see smei- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots).] ad·mirer n. ad·miring·ly adv. |
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