lik·en \ˈlīkən\verb (likened ; likened ; likening \-k(ə)niŋ\ ; likens) Etymology: Middle English liknen, from lik like + -nen -en — more at like III transitive verb : to represent as similar : compare < liken like to a pilgrimage > intransitive verb : to be or become like < once knew a lady that likened surprisingly to you — M.A.Bianchi >