ad|mir´ing|ly

ad|mire «ad MYR», verb, -mired, -mir|ing.

–v.t.

1. to regard with wonder, pleasure, and approval; feel delight or satisfaction in: »

We all admire a brave boy, a beautiful picture, or a fine piece of work.

SYNONYM(S): esteem.

2. to feel or express admiration for: »

We all admired my father's new car.

3. to wonder at; marvel at (now often used ironically or sarcastically): »

I admire your nerve.

4. U.S. Dialect. to like (to do something): »

We'd sure admire to do that, ma'am (John Steinbeck).

–v.i.

1. to feel or express admiration.

2. Archaic. to wonder.

╂[< Latin admīrārī < ad- at + mīrārī wonder < mīrus wonderful]

–ad|mir´er, noun.

–ad|mir´ing|ly, adverb.