endearing

American  

[en-deer-ing] / ɛnˈdɪər ɪŋ /

adjective

1. tending to make dear or beloved.

2. manifesting or evoking affection.

   an endearing smile.

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endearing British  

/ ɪnˈdɪərɪŋ /

adjective

1. giving rise to love or esteem; charming

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Other Word Forms

• endearingly
  adverb
• self-endearing
  adjective
• unendearing
  adjective
• unendearingly
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of endearing

First recorded in 1615–25; endear + -ing ²

Explanation

Endearing describes something or someone extremely lovable, like a kitten or your friend's sense of humor. The adjective endearing was originally used in the 1500s to mean "enhancing the value of," and by the 1640s it also meant "making dear or precious." It can still be used both ways, although the second meaning of endearing is most common. Any time you talk about a person or thing that's adorable or extremely likable, you can describe it as endearing.

Example Sentences

Callanan’s habit of taking a swipe at the American Ellmann in one footnote after another is almost endearing, even when it leaves the impression of snatching a piece of property back from an interloper.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

The Sun's Felicity Cross gave it five stars, saying that despite being "awkward", it was "endearing, and full of fun banter".

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

For abiding calm and a belief in the future, there are drop-ins with veteran teacher Titti — the movie’s most endearing figure — who runs an after-school tutoring center for local schoolchildren.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2026

There have also been endearing moments that have captured the public's attention.

From Barron's • Mar. 8, 2026

There was something endearing about their mutual trust and solicitude.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik

Related Words

• captivating
• charming