1. (v. t.) To feed and cause to grow; to supply with matter which increases bulk or supplies waste, and promotes health; to furnish with nutriment.

2. (v. t.) To support; to maintain.

3. (v. t.) To supply the means of support and increase to; to encourage; to foster; as, to nourish rebellion; to nourish the virtues.

4. (v. t.) To cherish; to comfort.

5. (v. t.) To educate; to instruct; to bring up; to nurture; to promote the growth of in attainments.

6. (v. i.) To promote growth; to furnish nutriment.

7. (v. i.) To gain nourishment.

8. (n.) A nurse.