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.
Ritchie and James have both likened the story to that of Michael Corleone in The Godfather movies. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 3 Sep. 2026 Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent this week likened Iran to a snake that has been decapitated but whose body is still writhing. — Matthew Lee, Los Angeles Times, 3 Sep. 2026 Schwaba likens individual genetic variants to grains of sand on a beach. — Jessica Craig, Popular Science, 2 Sep. 2026 The veteran comic likens the creative control he’s been granted to a second-string quarterback being entrusted to lead the team. — Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 1 Sep. 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 4 Sep. 2026.

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