fondness

[fond-nis]

noun

1. the state or quality of being fond.

2. tenderness or affection.

3. doting affection.

4. a liking or weakness for something.

   He has a fondness for sweets.

   Synonyms: preference, partiality, predilection

5. Archaic.,  complacent credulity; foolishness.

Other Word Forms

• self-fondness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of fondness¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English; fond ¹, -ness

Example Sentences

Anthony was confused about Paul’s fondness for sweet smells.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Members say these establishments are a welcome addition to the city’s traditional social scene, which has historically centered on Lexington’s fondness for horse racing and bourbon.

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A lot of people see the president less as a frothing-at-the-mouth fanatic and more like a glib businessman, the guy they remember with some fondness from “The Apprentice.”

Read more on Salon

Warmer temperatures may well help fuel growing rat populations but our overflowing bins, fondness for fast food and fractured communities all add to the challenge of keeping it under control.

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They added: "He was also a person of real integrity and warmth, who will always be remembered with genuine fondness by everyone he worked with at the club. Rest in peace, Matt."

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Related Words

• affection 
• devotion 
• penchant 
• predilection 
• preference 
• soft spot 
• tenderness www.thesaurus.com