affectionate
23 synonyms and 2 antonyms for affectionate, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Showing warmth, fondness, or love readily and openly.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
lovesome
cordial
goodhearted
good-natured
hearty
kindhearted
softhearted
kindsome
warm-hearted
tenderhearted
Antonyms
How to use affectionate
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
an affectionate hug
affectionate toward someone
Etymology
A learned borrowing from Latin affectionatus — built on affection plus the adjective ending -ate. It shares its root with "aficionado."
Full origin of affectionate →Frequently asked questions
What does “affectionate” mean?
The word “affectionate” means showing warmth, fondness, or love readily and openly. In plain terms, openly warm and loving in how someone behaves toward others.
How do you pronounce “affectionate”?
“Affectionate” is pronounced uh-FEHK-shuh-nuht (/əˈfɛkʃənət/ in IPA).
How do you use “affectionate” in a sentence?
Here is “affectionate” used in a sentence: “She’s a very affectionate mother who hugs her kids constantly.”
What is another word for “affectionate”?
Words with a similar meaning to “affectionate” include tender, lovesome, attached, loving, devoted and warm.
What is the opposite of “affectionate”?
The opposite of “affectionate” — its antonyms — are callous and heartless.
What part of speech is “affectionate”?
“Affectionate” is an adjective.
Where does the word “affectionate” come from?
The word “affectionate” comes from Latin. A learned borrowing from Latin affectionatus — built on affection plus the adjective ending -ate. It shares its root with "aficionado.".
Is “affectionate” a common word?
“Affectionate” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
