v. & n.
--v.tr.
1. a hold (a person) closely in the arms, esp. as a sign of affection. b (absol., of two people) hold each other closely.
2 clasp, enclose.
3 accept eagerly (an offer, opportunity, etc.).
4 adopt (a course of action, doctrine, cause, etc.).
5 include, comprise.
6 take in with the eye or mind.
--n. an act of embracing; holding in the arms.
Derivatives:
embraceable adj. embracement n. embracer n.
Etymology: ME f. OF embracer, ult. f. L in- IN-(1) + bracchium arm