Care Meaning
Care Definition & Usage
The process of looking after someone or something, with attention, concern, or effort.
Examples
- "She took great care in choosing the right gift."
- "The children were under the care of their grandmother for the weekend."
- "The nurse provided excellent care to the elderly patient."
- "He needs constant care after his surgery."
- "The garden needs more care to grow properly."
To feel concern or interest for someone or something; to provide attention to or take responsibility for.
Examples
- "She cares for her sick mother every day."
- "He cares deeply about the environment."
- "Do you care about what happens to the team?"
- "I care about your opinion and want to hear what you think."
- "They care for their pets as if they were family."
A feeling of concern or worry, often accompanied by affection or deep emotional involvement.
Examples
- "I have a lot of care for my friends and family."
- "Her care for the children was obvious from the way she spoke about them."
- "He showed no care for the consequences of his actions."
- "They felt deep care for each other after years of friendship."
- "The care she took in preparing the meal showed how much she valued her guests."
To avoid, protect, or prevent harm or damage to something.
Examples
- "Be careful with that glass; it’s fragile."
- "Care for the car so it runs smoothly for years."
- "You must care for your health if you want to stay active."
- "I always care for my plants by watering them regularly."
- "Careful driving can prevent accidents."
Cultural Context
The word 'care' has deep roots in human relationships, emphasizing the nurturing, protective, and emotionally significant acts of tending to someone or something. It can be used in many cultural contexts to express both professional duties (like medical care) and personal affection (like caring for a loved one). Its historical usage spans back to Old English, where the term was associated with worry and anxiety, as well as responsibility and guardianship.
The Gift of Care
Story
The Gift of Care
Jenna had always been the one to care for others. As the eldest daughter, she had taken on the responsibility of looking after her parents as they aged. Every morning, she would ensure her father had his medication, and each evening, she sat down to chat with her mother, listening attentively to her stories. Her days were filled with care, not just in the literal sense, but with a deep emotional investment in the well-being of her family. One day, as Jenna was sitting in her mother’s garden, taking care to tend to the flowers, her younger brother Adam came to visit. He noticed the exhaustion on her face and sat down beside her. "Jenna, you’ve been doing so much for mom and dad. Maybe you need a break," Adam said gently. Jenna smiled, but it was clear from her tired eyes that she was deeply invested in her role. "I care about them more than anything. It's my responsibility, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I just want to make sure they’re okay." Adam nodded, understanding the weight of her words. He knew Jenna's care wasn't just about tasks—it was about her emotional bond to the family, a love that extended beyond simple duty. Later that evening, as they all sat down to dinner, Jenna’s father turned to her with a proud smile. "You’ve always been the one to care for us, Jenna. But don’t forget to care for yourself too." Jenna paused, the words resonating with her deeply. She had always focused on caring for others, sometimes forgetting that her own well-being mattered too. That night, she promised herself that she would take the time to care for her own health and happiness, so she could continue to care for those she loved. As she lay in bed later that evening, Jenna realized that care, in all its forms—whether through action or emotional connection—was the foundation of every meaningful relationship she had. It was the gift that kept on giving, creating a cycle of love and support that would last through the years.
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