affectionate

adjective

ə-ˈfek-sh(ə-)nət How to pronounce affectionate (audio)
Definition of affectionatenext
as in loving
feeling or showing love an affectionate child who gives hugs and kisses freely

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of affectionate To be fair, affectionate behaviors in public and private tend to be healthy for couples. — Faith Hill, The Atlantic, 28 July 2026 With its the warm glow of nostalgia, Sag Harbor revealed his most affectionate tone to date. — Literary Hub, 28 July 2026 Popcorn ceilings remain, along with finishes that may prompt affectionate recognition or an immediate call to a contractor. — Spencer Elliott, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026 Not everyone came away without any reservations, though the caveats were still incredibly affectionate rather than damaging. — Clayton Davis, Variety, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for affectionate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affectionate
  1. loving
  2. adoring
Adjective
  • Pisces February 19 – March 20 A loving boundary can make partnership feel more secure.
    — Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 14 Aug. 2026
  • The film will follow Julián, a loving father and travel journalist.
    — Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of loving
Adjective
  • Mom and daughter share adoring glances at an event to celebrate International Women's Day in London.
    — Kate Hogan, PEOPLE, 21 Apr. 2026
  • The Patriots’ pass coverage without Christian Gonzalez, their atrocious inside linebacker play and roller-coaster special teams, which give any adoring fan a heart attack at a moment’s notice.
    — Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 16 Sep. 2025
Definition of adoring

Browse Nearby Words

affection
affectionate
affections
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Cite this Entry

“Affectionate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affectionate. Accessed 19 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on affectionate

Nglish: Translation of affectionate for Spanish Speakers

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