affectionate

American  

[uh-fek-shuh-nit] / əˈfɛk ʃə nɪt /

adjective

1. showing, indicating, or characterized by affection or love; fondly tender.

   an affectionate embrace.

   Synonyms:

   fond , loving

2. having great affection or love; warmly attached; loving.

   your affectionate brother.

3. Obsolete.

   1. strongly disposed or inclined.

   2. passionate; headstrong.

   3. biased; partisan.

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affectionate British  

/ əˈfɛkʃənɪt /

adjective

1. having or displaying tender feelings, affection, or warmth

   an affectionate mother

   an affectionate letter

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Other Word Forms

• affectionately adverb
• affectionateness noun
• pseudoaffectionate adjective
• quasi-affectionate adjective
• unaffectionate adjective

Etymology

Origin of affectionate

First recorded in 1485–95; affection ¹ + -ate ¹, on the model of passionate

Example Sentences

"The only way the monarchy works is by everybody either being apathetic or feeling very affectionate towards it," argues Anna Whitelock, a professor of the history of monarchy at City, University of London.

From BBC

Breeds with low levels were most often labeled "friendly," followed by "eager to please," "easy to train," "courageous," "lively," and "affectionate."

From Science Daily

That the affectionate Nishio-san doesn’t impose her perspective on the girl, but quite literally tries to perceive each moment from her height, signals a bond that’s closer to one between mutuals.

From Los Angeles Times

This portrait of the man is too affectionate to leave the reader much in doubt of the author’s feelings.

From The Wall Street Journal

I mean, Pat Buchanan obviously has a lot of personal and affectionate relationships with people who are Jewish.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• caring
• friendly
• loving
• sympathetic
• warm
• warmhearted