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v. ap·pre·ci·at·ed, ap·pre·ci·at·ing, ap·pre·ci·ates v.tr. 1. To recognize the quality, significance, or magnitude of: appreciated their freedom. 2. To be fully aware of or sensitive to; realize: I appreciate your problems. 3. To be thankful or show gratitude for: I really appreciate your help. 4. To admire greatly; value. 5. To raise in value or price, especially over time. v.intr. To increase in value or price, especially over time. [Late Latin appretiāre, appretiāt-, to appraise; see APPRAISE.] ap·preci·a′tor n. ap·precia·to′ry (-shə-tôr′ē) adj. Synonyms: appreciate, value, prize1, esteem, 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). |
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