verb

protect and care for (someone) lovingly.

he needed a woman he could cherish

adore,hold dear,love,care very much for,feel great affection for,dote on,be devoted to,revere,esteem,admire,appreciate,think the world of,set great store by,hold in high esteem,care for,look after,tend,protect,preserve,shelter,keep safe,support,nurture,cosset,indulge,put on a pedestal