lover
LUH-vuh
Lover (noun) means a person in a romantic or sexual relationship with someone. Example: “In the old play, the two lovers meet secretly by the river.”
noun
1
A person in a romantic or sexual relationship with someone.
"In the old play, the two lovers meet secretly by the river."
"The lovers walked hand in hand along the quiet seafront."
"The two had been secret lovers for years."
2
Someone who has a strong enthusiasm for a particular thing.
"My uncle is a great lover of jazz and owns hundreds of records."
"As a nature lover, he spends every weekend hiking in the hills."
"She's a real lover of classic cinema."
How to use lover
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA romantic partner, or someone passionate about something.
Common mistake
In modern English "lover" often implies a romantic/sexual relationship outside marriage, or an affair — context matters.
Common pairings
a lover of music
take a lover
former lovers
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Word forms
- Plural
- lovers
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
In the old play, the two _____ meet secretly by the river.
Etymology
Comes from Middle English lovere, luffer, lufere, made up of love + -er.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for lover
See all rhymes for lover →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a "lover" and a "partner"?
A "lover" emphasizes the romantic or physical side of a relationship, while "partner" is a broader, more neutral term for the person someone shares a committed relationship with. "Partner" is often preferred in everyday and formal use because it does not foreground the physical side.
What is the difference between "lover" and "boyfriend" or "girlfriend"?
"Boyfriend" and "girlfriend" describe a defined dating relationship, while "lover" is less about status and more about romantic or physical intimacy. "Lover" can sound more intense or old-fashioned and is sometimes used for a secret or extramarital relationship.
Is "lover" a formal or informal word?
In its romantic sense "lover" is fairly informal and emotionally charged, so in formal writing "partner" or "companion" is often used instead. The enthusiast sense, as in "book lover," is neutral and widely acceptable in any register.
What is the meaning of lover?
"lover" (noun) means a person in a romantic or sexual relationship with someone.
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