Definition

Verb (phrasal verb): - To begin to feel enthusiasm, interest, or affection for someone or something; to become more receptive or favorable toward a person, idea, or plan.

Usage

This phrasal verb describes a gradual change in attitude from neutrality, skepticism, or dislike to a more positive, interested, or enthusiastic state. It is often used when someone initially has reservations but then starts to appreciate the subject.

Examples

• The committee was skeptical at first, but they warmed to the innovative proposal after hearing the detailed presentation.
• He's a shy dog, but he'll warm to you once he gets to know you.
• I didn't like the song on the first listen, but I've really warmed to it after hearing it a few times.

Advanced Usage

• The phrasal verb can be separated, though this is less common. The direct object (the person or idea) can sometimes be placed between "warm" and "to."
  • The idea was strange, but she slowly warmed her colleagues to it.
• It implies a process, not an instantaneous change. Adverbs like "slowly," "gradually," or "eventually" are frequently used with it.

Variants and Related Words

• Warm (verb): To make or become warm. (e.g., )
• Warm up to (phrasal verb): A common synonym with identical meaning to "warm to."
  • The audience took a while to warm up to the new comedian's style.

Synonyms

• Become enthusiastic about
• Take a liking to
• Grow fond of
• Become receptive to

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Warm up (to): As noted above, this is a direct synonym for "warm to."
• Cool to: The opposite process; to become less enthusiastic or more distant from someone or an idea.
  • Investors cooled to the project after the initial report.

Related Idioms

• Break the ice: To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation started, often as a first step to helping people each other.
  • A simple game helped break the ice at the party.

Verb

1. become excited about
   • He warmed to the idea of a trip to Antarctica