The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Cherish \Cher"ish\ (ch[e^]r"[i^]sh), v. t. [imp. & p. p.
   Cherished (ch[e^]r"[i^]sht); p. pr. & vb. n. Cherising.]
   [F. ch['e]rir, fr. cher dear, fr. L. carus. See Caress,
   Finish.]
   1. To treat with tenderness and affection; to nurture with
      care; to protect and aid.
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            We were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth
            her children.                         --1 Thess. ii.
                                                  7.
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   2. To hold dear; to embrace with interest; to indulge; to
      encourage; to foster; to promote; as, to cherish religious
      principle.
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            To cherish virtue and humanity.       --Burke.

   Syn: To nourish; foster; nurse; nurture; entertain;
        encourage; comfort; protect; support; See Nurture.
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