English Dictionary

Definition of “embrace

1embrace1 (ɪmˈbreɪsPronunciation for embrace1

Definitions

verb (mainly tr)

  1. (also intr) (of a person) to take or clasp (another person) in the arms, or (of two people) to clasp each other, as in affection, greeting, etc; hug
  2. to accept (an opportunity, challenge, etc) willingly or eagerly
  3. to take up (a new idea, faith, etc); adopt  ⇒ to embrace Judaism 
  4. to comprise or include as an integral part  ⇒ geology embraces the science of mineralogy 
  5. to encircle or enclose

noun

  1. the act of embracing
  2. (often plural) euphemistic sexual intercourse

Alternative Forms

emˈbraceable adjective emˈbracement noun emˈbracer noun

Word Origin

C14: from Old French embracier,  from em- + brace  a pair of arms, from Latin bracchia arms

2embrace2 (ɪmˈbreɪsPronunciation for embrace2

Definitions

verb

  1. (tr) criminal law to commit or attempt to commit embracery against (a jury, etc)

Word Origin

C15: back formation from embraceor

Usage examples

  • Normally I would just watch them embrace then disappear into the bedsit on Holland Road.
    Hugo Wilcken, THE EXECUTION (2002)
  • Now, in an article in the British Medical Journal, Colombian doctors are calling for affluent nations to fully embrace the technique.
    New Scientist (2004)
  • He encouraged his players to be individuals and embrace the part of rebels.
    Globe and Mail (2003)
  • His slave ship the Sea Venture was grounded on the reefs which still embrace the clear waters of the island's shores.
    Glasgow Herald (2001)
  • It offers them an embrace with its light, easing the pain of their separation.
    Michael Geary, MOON ASTROLOGY FOR LOVERS (2002)

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