cherished

Everyday

1. Loved, protected and cared for very much (a cherished toy). tree →
2. Kept carefully in your mind and heart (a cherished memory, a cherished hope). tree →
3. (verb) Past form of «cherish»: loved and looked after something precious. tree →

In the lessons

In stories it shows how much a character loves a person, a pet or an object — often something old with memories attached. In family and church life people speak of «cherished memories» of someone who has died. It tells the reader that something matters deeply. Phrases: «cherished memories», «a cherished possession», «cherished friend».

Examples

• The teddy bear was her most cherished toy. tree →
• We have cherished memories of our holidays with Grandad. tree →
• He cherished the letter his father sent him. tree →
• The old photo is a cherished family treasure. tree →
• Freedom is a cherished right in many countries. tree →
• She cherished every moment with her new baby brother. tree →
• Our class cherished the oak tree in the playground. tree →
• As for the good old couple, they were given riches and honour, and were loved and cherished to the end of their lives. tree →

Note

Verb «cherish» is regular: cherished, cherishing. As an adjective it comes before a noun: «a cherished gift». It is stronger and warmer than «liked».