[ap.pre.ci.ate] vb -at.ed ; -at.ing [LL appretiatus, pp. of appretiare, fr. L ad- + pretium price--more at price] vt (1655) 1 a: to grasp the nature, worth, quality, or significance of "can't ~ the difference between right and wrong" b: to value or admire highly "thinks no one ~s his endeavors" c: to judge with heightened perception or understanding: be fully aware of "must experience it to ~ it" d: to recognize with gratitude "certainly ~s your kindness"
2: to increase the value of ~ vi: to increase in number or value -- ap.pre.ci.a.tor n -- ap.pre.cia.to.ry adj syn appreciate, value, prize, treasure, cherish mean to hold in high estimation. appreciate often connotes sufficient understanding to enjoy or admire a thing's excellence "appreciates fine wine". value implies rating a thing highly for its intrinsic worth "values our friendship". prize implies taking a deep pride in something one possesses "Americans prize their freedom". treasure emphasizes jealously safeguarding something considered precious "a treasured memento". cherish implies a special love and care for something "cherishes her children above all". syn see in addition understand