LOVE

Definitions

1. 1. A feeling of strong attachment induced by that which delights or commands admiration; preëminent kindness or devotion to another; affection; tenderness; as, the love of brothers and sisters. Of all the dearest bonds we prove Thou countest sons' and mothers' love Most sacred, most Thine own. Keble.
2. 2. Especially, devoted attachment to, or tender or passionate affection for, one of the opposite sex. He on his side Leaning half-raised, with looks of cordial love Hung over her enamored. Milton.
3. 3. Courtship; -- chiefly in the phrase to make love, i. e., to court, to woo, to solicit union in marriage. Demetrius . . . Made love to Nedar's daughter, Helena, And won her soul. Shak.
4. 4. Affection; kind feeling; friendship; strong liking or desire; fondness; good will; -- opposed to hate; often with of and an object. Love, and health to all. Shak. Smit with the love of sacred song. Milton. The love of science faintly warmed his breast. Fenton.
5. 5. Due gratitude and reverence to God. Keep yourselves in the love of God. Jude 21.
6. 6. The object of affection; -- often employed in endearing address. "Trust me, love." Dryden. Open the temple gates unto my love. Spenser.
7. 7. Cupid, the god of love; sometimes, Venus. Such was his form as painters, when they show Their utmost art, on naked Lores bestow. Dryden. Therefore do nimble-pinioned doves draw Love. Shak.
8. 8. A thin silk stuff. [Obs.] Boyle.
9. 9. A climbing species of Clematis (C. Vitalba).
10. 10. Nothing; no points scored on one side; -- used in counting score at tennis, etc. He won the match by three sets to love. The Field.