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

Its return is particularly welcome because Mr. Finn died in the spring, and this thoroughly delightful production, directed and choreographed by Danny Mefford, serves as a polished and affectionate tribute to his gifts.

From The Wall Street Journal

It’s the most affectionate section of the film, unique in its depiction of an honest, tender bond.

From The Wall Street Journal

A Manchester United scarf also adorned his coffin, which was next to a wreath bearing the affectionate Mancunian term: "R kid".

From BBC

From his enthusiastic dancing dad and slumbering grandma to the overly productive frybread vendor, each character is deftly rendered with a familiar and affectionate warmth.

From Salon

He encourages it to scramble on to a wildflower, with an affectionate: "Welcome to your new home - there you go."

From BBC

Related Words

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