To Add Something To, To Include Something, To Accompany, To Garnish
transitive verb, ichidan verb
Because the hiragana ends with an う sound, you know this word is a verb. When appending something, you basically want to add something to something, or to include something with it. 添える means to add something alongside the main thing, often as a thoughtful touch to complement or support it. For example, you might say 添える when including a letter with a gift to add a personal touch, or when garnishing a dish with parsley to enhance its appearance. It's also used when you feel inclined to add a second hand to hold a bowl carefully.
そえる
Since this word consists of a kanji with hiragana attached, you can bet that it will use the kun'yomi reading. You didn't learn that reading with this kanji, so here's a mnemonic to help you: One way to add something to something else is to just sew (そ) it on!
アイスクリームにミントの葉っぱを添えると、少しオシャレな感じになりますよ。
Garnishing ice cream with a mint leaf gives it a bit of a stylish touch.
プレゼントにメッセージカードを添えて渡しました。
I gave the present with a message card attached.
付き合ってもないのに、腰に手を添えてくる男性ってどう思いますか？
What do you think about a man who puts his hand on your waist even though you're not in a relationship?