sweetheart
94 synonyms and 0 antonyms for sweetheart, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A term of affection used for a romantic partner or a loved one.
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.
How to use sweetheart
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Middle English swete heorte, literally "sweet heart" — a term of endearment.
Full origin of sweetheart →Frequently asked questions
What does “sweetheart” mean?
The word “sweetheart” means a term of affection used for a romantic partner or a loved one. In plain terms, a loving nickname for a partner, or someone you're romantically attached to.
How do you pronounce “sweetheart”?
“Sweetheart” is pronounced SWEET-haht (/ˈswiːtˌhɑːt/ in IPA).
How do you use “sweetheart” in a sentence?
Here is “sweetheart” used in a sentence: “He called his wife "sweetheart" every morning.”
What is another word for “sweetheart”?
Words with a similar meaning to “sweetheart” include sweetie, baby, dear, darling, babber and precious.
What part of speech is “sweetheart”?
“Sweetheart” is a noun.
Where does the word “sweetheart” come from?
The word “sweetheart” comes from Middle English. From Middle English swete heorte, literally "sweet heart" — a term of endearment.
Is “sweetheart” a common word?
“Sweetheart” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “sweetheart” have?
“Sweetheart” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a term of affection used for a romantic partner or a loved one.
Is sweetheart used for romantic partners only or can it be used more broadly?
Sweetheart is used both as a term of affection for a romantic partner and more broadly for any loved one, and it can also describe a person one is romantically involved with, especially early in a relationship. Its meaning shifts slightly depending on context and tone.
Is sweetheart a formal or informal term?
Sweetheart is an informal, affectionate term, typically used in close personal relationships rather than professional or formal settings. It conveys warmth and fondness.
Can sweetheart be used for someone who is not a romantic partner?
Yes, sweetheart can be used as a general term of affection for any loved one, not exclusively a romantic partner, such as a family member or close friend. Context usually makes clear which sense is intended.