affectionate

af-fec-tion-ate · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Showing or feeling fondness, warmth, or tenderness toward someone.

  2. 2.

    Characterized by or expressing love or warm regard.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    affectionate embrace — A warm, loving hug.
  • •
    affectionate nickname — A term of endearment used for someone close.

Related words

Antonyms: cold, distant, unfeeling
See also: affection, loving, tender
Synonyms: caring, loving, tender, warm

Etymology

From Latin affectionatus, past participle of affectionare ("to affect"), from affectio ("affection"). Entered English in the late 15th century.