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 The first five conditions describe any lasting affectionate bond, such as a close friendship. — Pascal Vrticka, Scientific American, 4 Oct. 2026 Columnist Amy Kaufman wrote about how watching affectionate moments between the couple, such as a clip of them kissing, can trigger intense reactions among Swifties. — Allison Degrushe, StyleCaster, 24 Sep. 2026 Some couples feel more compelled to be physically affectionate on vacation or during special times. — Eric Thomas, Sun Sentinel, 24 Sep. 2026 Later, the Moon trines affectionate Venus, helping warmth and perspective return. — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 24 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for affectionate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affectionate
  1. loving
  2. adoring
Adjective
  • In the series premiere, television personality and bestselling author Amanda Kloots opens up about grief, happiness and loving after loss.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 21 Oct. 2026
  • The child studying English was met with loving lament, while the one pursuing computer science at Stanford University was the flag post of family pride.
    — Kamau Bobb October 21, Literary Hub, 21 Oct. 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 27 Oct. 2026.

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