Embrace

Embrace is a word with both physical and figurative meanings. As a verb, it most often refers to the act of surrounding someone with the arms in a hug, or to holding someone close for comfort, warmth, or celebration. It can also mean to accept or adopt something, as in embracing a tradition, an idea, or a change. As a noun, embrace denotes the act of embracing or the state of being embraced.

Etymology: The term derives from the Old French embracier, formed from en- “in” or “on” and bras “arm.” It entered English in the Middle Ages with senses linked to the physical act of wrapping the arms around another. Over time, the figurative sense—accepting, welcoming, or incorporating—grew alongside the literal one.

Usage and cultural context: A physical embrace varies in meaning by culture and relationship, and should be performed with consent and awareness of personal boundaries. Figuratively, to embrace something means to welcome it openly; people may embrace change, diversity, or new technologies.

In literature, speech, and psychology, embrace is used to convey closeness, protection, or inclusion. Research on social touch indicates that hugs can stimulate bonding hormones and reduce stress, though effects depend on context and individual comfort.