What does it mean to hold someone in high esteem?

Holding someone in high esteem means to regard them with great respect and admiration. When a person is held in high esteem, their qualities, achievements, or contributions are valued and appreciated. This involves recognizing their worth and the positive impact they have made, whether in a personal, professional, or broader context.

In contrast, the other options reflect negative attitudes. Ignoring a person's contributions implies a lack of acknowledgment, which is the opposite of high esteem. Criticizing someone's efforts indicates disapproval and diminishes their value. Treating someone with indifference suggests a complete lack of regard, which is far removed from the appreciation inherent in holding someone in high esteem. Therefore, the concept of valuing and admiring someone aligns perfectly with the definition provided in the correct choice.