Affectionate
/əˈfɛkʃənət/
adjectiveBeginnerCommonGeneral
Meaning
Question
Definitions
1
Displaying warmth and care.
/əˈfɛkʃənət/
adjectivepositiveBeginner
General
Showing fondness or tenderness.
The dog gave its owner an affectionate lick.
💡 Simply: Showing love and care.
More Examples
2
He received an affectionate hug from his grandmother.
How It's Used
Everyday Life
"She's a very affectionate mother."
Literature
"The novel portrays an affectionate relationship between the two characters."
From Middle English *afectuous, from Old French afectieus, from Latin affectus, past participle of afficere "to affect, influence".
The word's usage has remained largely consistent throughout history, always signifying positive emotional connection.
Memory tip
Think of 'affection' – it's all about love and care.
Practice
Base: affect
afectionateafffectionate
Usage
60%Spoken
40%Written