care for
phrasal verb
cared for; caring for; cares for
1
: to do the things that are needed to help and protect (a person or animal) : look after (someone or something)
She cares for elderly patients.
Who is caring for your son while you are at work?
2
: to feel affection for (someone)
I got the feeling he never really cared for me.
3
somewhat formal
: to like or enjoy (something)
—often used in negative statements
I don't care for jelly beans.
I don't care for your tone of voice.
4
somewhat formal
: to want (something)
Would you care for some pie?
Examples of care for in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
At work, explore resources like employee assistance programs (EAPs) or wellness initiatives that offer stress management workshops, counseling or fitness programs—partner with HR to uncover benefits that can make caring for yourself more accessible.
4.
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Cindy Chia, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024
The most contentious provision is a restriction on the use of funds from TRICARE, the health care program for active-duty service members, for gender-affirming care for the children 18 years and younger of service members.
—Brad Dress, The Hill, 11 Dec. 2024
To read Giovanni’s poems or hear her speak was to immediately feel her profound care for Black people.
—Hannah Giorgis, The Atlantic, 11 Dec. 2024
Fannie’s Friends support group: Fannie’s Friends is a virtual support group for adult daughters and granddaughters caring for those living with dementia.
—Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 11 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for care for 
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Cindy Chia, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024
The most contentious provision is a restriction on the use of funds from TRICARE, the health care program for active-duty service members, for gender-affirming care for the children 18 years and younger of service members.
—Brad Dress, The Hill, 11 Dec. 2024
To read Giovanni’s poems or hear her speak was to immediately feel her profound care for Black people.
—Hannah Giorgis, The Atlantic, 11 Dec. 2024
Fannie’s Friends support group: Fannie’s Friends is a virtual support group for adult daughters and granddaughters caring for those living with dementia.
—Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 11 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for care for
Dictionary Entries Near care for
Cite this Entry
“Care for.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/care%20for. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.
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