While the word "embrace" is related to a French verb that now includes kissing, the English word "embrace" primarily means to hug.
Understanding the Meaning of "Embrace"
In common English usage, to embrace someone means to hold them closely in your arms, typically as a sign of affection, greeting, or comfort. This is essentially a strong hug.
However, the historical origin of the word sheds more light on its connection to kissing.
The French Origin
The word "embrace" originates from the French verb embrasser. According to the provided reference:
- Embrasser started out meaning "to clasp in the arms".
- Critically, the reference states that embrasser "now includes kissing".
So, while the root word in its modern French form encompasses both hugging and kissing, the English word "embrace" has largely retained the original sense of "clasping in the arms" as its primary meaning.
Embrace in English Usage
In English, when someone says they gave someone an "embrace," it almost always refers to a hug. While a kiss might accompany an embrace, the word "embrace" itself doesn't strictly mean "to kiss."
Consider these common uses:
- Physical Embrace: Giving someone a warm hug.
- Example: They shared a tearful embrace before saying goodbye.
- Figurative Embrace: Accepting or adopting something enthusiastically.
- Example: The company decided to embrace the new technology. (This meaning has no connection to physical contact).
| Meaning | Primarily Used In | Connection to Kissing? |
|---|---|---|
| Clasp in arms | English, French | English: Not typically; French: Yes |
| Kiss | French | English: Not the primary meaning |
| Accept enthusiastically | English | No |
Therefore, based on its common usage and historical nuance stemming from its French root, embrace primarily means to hug in English, although its linguistic origin does connect it to kissing in the modern French context.
