tend 1
/tend/ , v.i.
1. to be disposed or inclined in action, operation, or effect to do something: The particles tend to unite.
2. to be disposed toward an idea, emotion, way of thinking, etc.: He tends to be overly optimistic. Her religious philosophy tends toward pantheism.
3. to lead or conduce, as to some result or resulting condition: measures tending to improved working conditions; Governments are tending toward democracy.
4. to be inclined to or have a tendency toward a particular quality, state, or degree: This wine tends toward the sweet side.
5. (of a journey, course, road, etc.) to lead or be directed in a particular direction (usually fol. by to, toward, etc.): a path tending toward the beach.
[ 1300-50; ME tenden tendre tendere to stretch, extend, proceed ]
tend 2
/tend/ , v.t.
1. to attend to by work or services, care, etc.: to tend a fire.
2. to look after; watch over and care for; minister to or wait on with service: to tend the sick.
3. Naut. to handle or attend to (a rope).
v.i.
4. to attend by action, care, etc. (usually fol. by to ).
5. tend on or upon , Archaic. to attend or wait upon; minister to; serve: She tended on the sick and dying with infinite compassion.
[ 1300-50; ME tenden, aph. var. of ATTEND ]