looking at someone or something with pleasure and respect, or showing appreciation for good qualities.
From Latin 'admirari,' meaning 'to wonder at' (ad- 'to' + mirari 'to wonder'). The word traveled through Old French 'admirer' into Middle English, keeping its sense of surprised appreciation.
To 'admire' literally means 'to wonder at'—it's the feeling you get when something surprises you with how great it is, which is why admiration often involves standing still and just staring in appreciation!
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