verb / noun

nurture

NUR-cher/ˈnɜːrtʃər/

Care or influence that supports growth and development.

The older woman nurtures the child's skills by patiently guiding the planting.

An older East Asian woman patiently guides a child planting a seedling, gentle support and care.

Etymology

nurtureOld Frenchnourishment, upbringing, training

Old French norture covered both nourishment and education. The English verb initially meant bringing up a child, connecting physical care with the broader work of encouraging development.

In context

Child Mind Institute2:00

… encourage your kids to nurture their emotional side and engage in the activities they're interested in

9 Tips for Parenting Pre-Teens

More examples

Children need both nourishment and nurture to thrive.
Her grandfather nurtured her talent for music.
They nurture their friendship through regular visits.

Forms

nurture · nurtures · nurtured · nurturing

nurturer noun — A person who supports another's development.

Similar words

foster: Emphasizes encouraging development, not necessarily providing direct personal care.
cultivate: Emphasizes deliberate effort to develop a skill, quality, or relationship.
care: Emphasizes meeting needs rather than encouraging growth and development.