liken

[ lahy-kuhn ]

verb (used with object)

1. to represent as similar or like; compare:

   to liken someone to a weasel.

liken

/ ˈlaɪkən /

verb

1. tr to see or represent as the same or similar; compare

Other Words From

• un·likened adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of liken¹

First recorded in 1275–1325, liken is from the Middle English word liknen. See like ¹, -en ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of liken¹

C14: from like ¹(adj)

Example Sentences

He likens Trump to Samson, a flawed biblical figure who was used by God for a greater purpose.

From Los Angeles Times

In a move which could be likened to swallowing half a paracetamol for acute appendicitis, the government made sure people were paying slightly less than the market rate for a litre of petrol.

From BBC

Some cast the election in an apocalyptic light and likened Trump to a Biblical figure.

From BBC

He likened the early days of the Trump administration to the initial invasion of Iraq in 2003.

From Salon

Ratcliffe, Trump’s nominee for CIA director who served as an intelligence chief in his first term, has likened countering China’s rise to the defeat of fascism or bringing down the Iron Curtain.

From BBC

Related Words

• equate
• relate