cultivate
UK: ˈkʌltɪveɪt | US: ˈkʌltɪveɪt
vt. to prepare and use land for growing crops or plants
vt. to nurture or improve something (e.g., skills, relationships) through deliberate effort
vt. to develop a particular quality or attitude in oneself or others
The word "cultivate" traces back to Latin colere (to till, care for), which also gave rise to words like "culture" and "agriculture." The original sense of tending to land evolved metaphorically to include nurturing skills, relationships, or personal qualities. The suffix -ate transforms it into an active verb, emphasizing the process of deliberate growth or improvement.
Farmers cultivate the soil to grow healthy crops.
She worked hard to cultivate a positive mindset.
The school aims to cultivate creativity in its students.
He cultivated friendships with people from diverse backgrounds.
Cultivating good habits early in life leads to long-term success.