1. To like very much. This verb is much and very absurdly used in New England in expressions like the following: "I should admire to see the President."
2. To wonder at; to be affected with slight surprise.--Ray. In New England, particularly in Maine, this word is used in this sense. Some of the old English writers so employed it.
I perceive these lords
At this rencontre do so much admire
That they devour their reason.
Shakspeare.