affectionate

adjective

af·​fec·​tion·​ate ə-ˈfek-sh(ə-)nət How to pronounce affectionate (audio)
1
: feeling or showing affection or warm regard : loving
affectionate friends
an affectionate nickname
2
: motivated by affection : tender
affectionate care
3
obsolete : inclined, disposed
affectionately adverb

Examples of affectionate in a Sentence

an affectionate child who gives hugs and kisses freely
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The boxer looked thrilled to walk the carpet with his future wife, giving Leerdam affectionate kisses and showing some PDA on the carpet. Natasha Dye, People.com, 27 Mar. 2025 Labradors are known for their friendly and playful nature, while bulldogs, despite their sometimes grumpy demeanor, can be affectionate and loyal companions. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 20 Mar. 2025 See the 10 'most popular' dog breeds of 2024 Although French Bulldogs have once again snagged first place, the canines in the second and third slots are also known for their friendly and affectionate demeanors. Amaris Encinas, USA TODAY, 20 Mar. 2025 Onyx does not seem to mind it at all, and his condition does not slow him down from being playful, affectionate, and sweet to people and his brother, Loki. Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 15 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for affectionate

Word History

Etymology

partly borrowed from Medieval Latin affectiōnātus "inclined, disposed, well-disposed," from Latin affectiōn-, affectiō affection + -ātus -ate entry 3; partly formed from affection + -ate entry 3 after Middle French affectionné "having affection for," past participle of affectionner "to have affection for," derivative of affection

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of affectionate was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Affectionate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/affectionate. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

affectionate

adjective
af·​fec·​tion·​ate ə-ˈfek-sh(ə-)nət How to pronounce affectionate (audio)
: feeling or showing a great liking for a person or thing : loving
affectionately adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on affectionate

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