liken

verb

lik·​en ˈlī-kən How to pronounce liken (audio)
likened; likening ˈlī-kə-niŋ How to pronounce liken (audio)
ˈlīk-niŋ
Synonyms of likennext

transitive verb

: to represent as similar : compare

Synonyms of liken

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Examples of liken in a Sentence

he generally likened a root canal to some horrible form of torture I think that we can liken the two pianists, at least in terms of natural talent.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Rollins, however, likened the Herald’s questions about her use of taxpayer funds to a fishing expedition, on Monday. — Gayla Cawley, Boston Herald, 12 Aug. 2026 His bravado in attacking opponents’ campaign donors has earned him the moniker Meek Mill, likening his attacks to the rapper’s’ spitfire energy fueled from his time as a battle rapper. — Miami Herald, 12 Aug. 2026 Siebert's Malek likened Truth API to the push among big trading firms in recent years to move their servers closer to those of exchanges. — Alex Harring, CNBC, 12 Aug. 2026 Prediction market platforms and their proponents say trading contracts on the markets is not the same as betting, likening it instead to trading on the stock market. — Justine McDaniel, Los Angeles Times, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for liken

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of liken was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing liken

Rhymes for liken

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Browse Nearby Words

like-minded
liken
likeness
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Cite this Entry

“Liken.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/liken. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on liken

Nglish: Translation of liken for Spanish Speakers

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