endear
To cause to be loved or liked
Examples
In a meeting
“Her willingness to help with small tasks endeared her to the entire team.”
Over coffee
“His terrible dad jokes somehow endear him to everyone he meets.”
Why this word
charm
Endear creates lasting affection or attachment; charm is more superficial appeal or fascination
attract
Attract draws interest or attention; endear specifically creates warm affection or fondness
please
Please gives momentary satisfaction; endear builds deeper emotional attachment or fondness over time
Usage tip
Use when describing actions or qualities that create affection. Often used with 'to' (endear to someone). Positive and warm in tone.
Etymology
Middle English from 'en-' (to make) + 'dear'
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Related words
apprehensive
Anxious or worried about something that may happen in the future
evoke
To bring a feeling, memory, or image into the mind
resent
To feel bitterness or indignation toward something or someone
placate
To make someone less angry or hostile through appeasement
demoralize
To cause someone to lose confidence or hope
patronize
To treat someone in a condescending manner as if they were inferior