Embrace

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ɪmˈbɹeɪs/, /É›mˈbɹeɪs/
• Rhymes: -eɪs

Alternative forms

• imbrace obsolete

Origin

From Middle English embracen, from Old French embracier, equivalent to - + brace. Influenced by Middle English umbracen ("to stretch out over, cover, engulf"), from um- ("around") + bracen ("to brace").

Full definition of embrace

Verb

1. To clasp in the arms with affection; to take in the arms; to hug.
• ShakespeareI will embrace him with a soldier's arm,
  That he shall shrink under my courtesy.
• Bible, Acts xx. 1Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them.
2. (obsolete) To cling to; to cherish; to love.
3. To seize eagerly, or with alacrity; to accept with cordiality; to welcome.I wholeheartedly embrace the new legislation.
• ShakespeareYou embrace the occasion.
• John LockeWhat is there that he may not embrace for truth?
4. To accept; to undergo; to submit to.
• ShakespeareI embrace this fortune patiently.
5. To encircle; to encompass; to enclose.
• DrydenNot that my song, in such a scanty space,
  So large a subject fully can embrace.
• DenhamLow at his feet a spacious plain is placed,
  Between the mountain and the stream embraced.
6. figurative To enfold, to include (ideas, principles, etc.); to encompass.Natural philosophy embraces many sciences.
7. To fasten on, as armour.
8. (legal) To attempt to influence (a jury, court, etc.) corruptly.

Noun

1. hug noun; putting arms around someone.
• 1907, w, The Younger Set Chapter 1/2, His sister, Mrs. Gerard, stood there in carriage gown and sables, radiant with surprise. “Phil ! You ! Exactly like you, Philip, to come strolling in from the antipodes—dear fellow !” recovering from the fraternal embrace and holding both lapels of his coat in her gloved hands.
2. metaphorical enfolding, including.