cherubic

American  

[chuh-roo-bik] / tʃəˈru bɪk /

Sometimes cherubical

adjective

1. of or having the nature of a cherub, or an angel represented as a rosy-cheeked child with wings; angelic.

2. having a plump, pretty innocence.

   a cherubic face and a dazzling smile.

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Other Word Forms

• cherubically
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of cherubic

First recorded in 1620–1630; cherub + -ic

Explanation

Use the word cherubic to describe someone with a round face and an air of sweetness, whether you’re talking about a cute cooing baby or your innocent-looking, round-faced 40-year-old brother. The word cherubic, pronounced "CHAIR-uh-bick," is used to describe someone who looks like a cherub, a baby-like angel you’ve probably seen in Renaissance paintings. Today, you don’t have to be divine, winged, or even a child to be described as cherubic. The word describes those who have a rosy, childlike innocence and a sweet, pleasing roundness.

Example Sentences

But its pièce de résistance for Roffman was Caselotti herself, who was home that afternoon and happy to entertain strangers with her cherubic singsong cadence.

From Salon • Mar. 29, 2025

Over time, the 18-year-old Northern Irishman with the cherubic face and limitless potential, who ticked off those first four major championships in a four-year span, has grown up.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 9, 2024

Commentators said that the young pitcher, whose cherubic good looks caught Lee’s eye, was becoming a sensation in Japan.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2024

The wooden figure—with its shaggy white hair, black curlicue mustache, and cherubic pink cheeks—bears little resemblance to Donald Trump’s signature comb over and bronzed skin.

From Slate • Jun. 10, 2023

“You’ll work with Nigel today, he’s our youngest,” he said, gesturing towards a man with a pale doughy body, spiky dark hair, and an almost cherubic face.

From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie