verb (past and past participlecared, present participlecar·ing, 3rd person present singularcares)
Definition:
1. transitive and intransitive verb be concerned: to be interested in or concerned about something I said I couldn't care less if he did leave. I don't care whether you come or not.
2. intransitive verb feel affection and concern: to feel affection or love and concern for somebody
3. intransitive verb tend somebody or something: to tend or supervise somebody or something
4. intransitive verb like or want something: to like or be in favor of something
(
formal
)
Would you care for dessert?
noun (pluralcares)
Definition:
1. upkeep: the process of maintaining something in good condition a skin care treatment
2. careful attention: careful attention to avoid damage or error
3. worry: a worry or cause for anxiety without a care in the world
4. worried state of mind: a troubled state of mind arising from worry or grief
(
literary or formal
)
5. social welfare attentive treatment of somebody: the providing of whatever is needed for the well-being of somebody who is dependent or physically or mentally challenged responsible for the 20 children in her care residential care
6. legal oversight of somebody: legal oversight of and responsibility for somebody such as a minor was put into the care of temporary foster parents
[ Old English caru "sorrow" < Indo-European]
in care of into the temporary possession of an addressee who will ensure that the item will be delivered to the intended recipient sent the letter to her in care of her parents
take care
1. to behave prudently, with regard for your own safety
2. used as an affectionate farewell to somebody (informal)
take care of somebody or something
1. to provide for the needs of somebody or something
2. to deal with somebody or something effectively
Word Usage
could care less or couldn't care less?
In informal English I could care less is all but synonymous with I couldn't care less, except that it carries overtones of irony. However, it is best avoided in writing.
