1. work hard to develop something, refine
Professional
Social
cultivate a friendship/image
The verb to cultivate can mean to prepare the use of soil for planting and growing crops and plants. To cultivate can also mean to develop the growth of something or someone. To cultivate can also mean to develop an image or skill by practising or training. You can also cultivate a relationship meaning to seek out people to share your interests or to develop a friendship.