# nourish

/ˈnɝɪʃ/ (US) · /nˈʌɹɪʃ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nourish
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

to provide food for someone or something so they can grow and stay healthy. It can also mean to support an idea or feeling so it becomes stronger.

For teachers: to provide food or sustenance for growth and development; to support or maintain a physical or mental state. Often used in the context of soil, plants, or abstract concepts like hope and creativity.

## Examples

- The soil needs to nourish the plants for them to grow.
- A healthy diet is essential to nourish the body and maintain high energy levels throughout the day.
- The philosopher argued that a society must nourish its citizens' intellectual curiosity to ensure long-term cultural and scientific progress.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.