endearment

noun

en·​dear·​ment in-ˈdir-mənt How to pronounce endearment (audio)
Synonyms of endearmentnext
1
: a word or an act (such as a caress) expressing affection
2
: the act or process of endearing

Examples of endearment in a Sentence

two lovers whispering endearments to each other
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.
Turns out, this is a term of endearment, not an insult. — Jim Edwards, Fortune, 17 June 2026 Dudinha is a Portuguese term of endearment for the name Eduarda, which means rich and blessed guard. — Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Nov. 2025 Erinn referenced the same term of endearment in her Instagram post, which featured 20 photos of the couple throughout their relationship. — Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 12 June 2026 That’s when Antone’s started to transcend beyond just being a home for the blues, and the blues just became almost like a term of endearment for soulful, authentic music here in Austin. — Chris Willman, Variety, 10 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for endearment

Word History

First Known Use

1610, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of endearment was in 1610

Rhymes for endearment

See All Rhymes for endearment

Browse Nearby Words

endearing
endearment
endear to
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Cite this Entry

“Endearment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/endearment. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

endearment

noun
en·​dear·​ment in-ˈdi(ə)r-mənt How to pronounce endearment (audio)
: a word or an act (as a caress) showing love or affection

More from Merriam-Webster on endearment

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for endearment

Nglish: Translation of endearment for Spanish Speakers

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