1. To hug someone in one's arms fondly, or to hug each other fondly: When Monika came home after work, she embraced her two children tenderly and affectionately.
2. To include or hold something as an essential part: After being asked about his interests while being interviewed, Doug mentioned that his activities in the field of music embraced many different instruments and kinds of music.
3. To support something, as a change, theory, or belief, readily and freely: The trainee teacher in school welcomed and embraced any new ideas and methods from the older and more experienced members of the staff.