admire
UK[ədˈmaɪə(r)]US[ədˈmaɪər]
v
to regard with respect, warm approval, or pleased wonder.
v
to look at something and think how beautiful or impressive it is.
Etymology
the word 'admire' entered english in the late 16th century from the latin verb 'admirari', meaning 'to wonder at'. this latin term is a compound of 'ad-' (to, at) and 'mirari' (to wonder), which is derived from 'mirus' (wonderful). the core semantic journey is from the literal sense of looking upon something with astonishment or wonder, to the more abstract modern meanings of regarding someone with deep respect or looking at something with aesthetic pleasure. the shift reflects a movement from passive surprise to active appreciation.
Analysis
the word 'admire' is a simplex loanword from latin. it does not contain separable morphemes in its modern english spelling that retain independent meaning.
Examples
i really admire her dedication to her work.
we stopped to admire the breathtaking view from the cliff.
he is widely admired for his integrity and honesty.