care
UK[keə]US[ker]
n
The process of protecting someone or something and providing what they need.
n
Serious attention, especially to the details of a situation or thing.
v
To be interested in someone or something and think that they are important.
v
To feel that something is important and to be interested in it or worried about it.
Etymology
The word 'care' originates from the Old English noun 'caru' and verb 'carian', meaning 'sorrow, anxiety, serious mental attention'. These derive from the Proto-Germanic karō, which is thought to be related to the Proto-Indo-European root gar-, meaning 'to cry out, call, scream', suggesting a conceptual link between vocalized grief and internalized worry. Over time, the sense of 'burden of mind' broadened to encompass the positive, active aspects of concern, such as providing protection and attention. This evolution reflects a shift from a passive state of distress to a more engaged sense of responsibility and solicitude.
Analysis
The word 'care' is a simplex word of Old English origin. It functions as a complete lexical unit.
Examples
The children need a lot of care and attention.
She chose her words with great care.
He cares deeply about environmental issues.