liken

verb

lik·​en ˈlī-kən How to pronounce liken (audio)
likened; likening ˈlī-kə-niŋ How to pronounce liken (audio)
ˈlīk-niŋ

transitive verb

: to represent as similar : compare

Examples of liken in a Sentence

he generally likened a root canal to some horrible form of torture I think that we can liken the two pianists, at least in terms of natural talent.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In a 1987 interview with The Times, video artist Michael J. Masucci, who will be present at numerous events in the series, likened being a part of EZTV to being in the music group the Ramones. Mark Olsen, Los Angeles Times, 21 Mar. 2025 In 2010, Jeff Bewkes, the head of Time Warner, the cable channel’s parent company, likened Netflix to the Albanian Army, which, of course, no one is afraid of. Brent Lang, Variety, 20 Mar. 2025 Ramsey likened their real-life experiences to what their character Ellie will encounter in the next installment of The Last of Us. Esther Kang, People.com, 19 Mar. 2025 Simmons likened the future of KISS to a caterpillar going into its cocoon and emerging a butterfly. Melissa Ruggieri, USA TODAY, 17 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for liken

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of liken was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Liken.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/liken. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

liken

verb
lik·​en ˈlī-kən How to pronounce liken (audio)
likened; likening ˈlīk-(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce liken (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on liken

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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