regard is a general term that is usually qualified.
he is highly regarded in the profession
respect implies a considered evaluation or estimation.
after many years they came to respect her views
esteem implies greater warmth of feeling accompanying a high valuation.
no citizen of the town was more highly esteemed
admire suggests usually enthusiastic appreciation and often deep affection.
a friend that I truly admire
Example Sentences
We gazed out the window and admired the scenery. I admire the way you handled such a touchy situation.
Recent Examples on the WebBesides more than 300 classic cars to admire, the downtown event features a street fair with music, arts, craft and food vendors, shopping, breweries and restaurants.San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Aug. 2022 This set has nine mini figures in total and has plenty of smaller details to admire, as well. Kevin Cortez, Popular Mechanics, 22 Aug. 2022 Another day, another Jennifer Lopez outfit to admire. Claire Harmeyer, Peoplemag, 16 Aug. 2022 There’s a chef’s table in the space and the main dining area is up the winding stairs and has windows running the entire length of the space that are thrown open to better admire the sea views framed by flowering palms. Rooksana Hossenally, Forbes, 8 Aug. 2022 Many Kid Cudi fans admire the rapper for his ability to be outspoken about his mental health struggles. Elise Brisco, USA TODAY, 19 Aug. 2022 Inside, guests can admire the chandeliers hanging from the 15-foot ceilings, fireplaces and pine floors. Natalia Senanayake, Peoplemag, 19 Aug. 2022 That kind of stability has helped the Gondoliers remain competitive and be a program to admire in the community.Los Angeles Times, 24 July 2022 From sunrise to sunset, our guests can admire a panorama of exceptional views from the balconies of the rooms. Roxanne Adamiyatt, Town & Country, 14 June 2022 See More
Word History
Etymology
borrowed from Middle French admirer, Latinization of amirer "to make (little or much) of," borrowed from Latin admīrārī, ammīrārī "to regard with wonder, show esteem for," from ad-ad- + mīrārī "to be surprised, look with wonder at," derivative of mīrus, "remarkable, amazing," of uncertain origin
Note: Regarding etymology of Latin mīrus see note at smile entry 1.