ernähren
Translation
to feed, to nourish, to support, to provide for
Examples
Sie muss eine große Familie ernähren.
She has to support a large family.
Er ernährt sich gesund.
He eats a healthy diet.
Pflanzen ernähren sich von Licht und Wasser.
Plants nourish themselves with light and water.
Grammar Patterns
((sb.)) to feed/support (sb.) She has to support her family.
sich ((von+3)) to live on (sth.) Many animals live on plants.
sich ((Adverb)) to eat (in a certain way) He eats healthily.
Similar Words
füttern (to feed an animal), versorgen (to provide for)
Etymology
From the prefix 'er-' (denoting achievement) and 'nähren' (to nourish), related to 'Nahrung' (food).
Memory Tips
Think of 'earning' ('er-') the 'nourishment' ('nähren') to provide for your family.