affectionate

[uh-fek-shuh-nit] / əˈfɛk ʃə nɪt /

ADJECTIVE

having or showing fondness

Synonyms

STRONGEST

caring friendly loving sympathetic warm warmhearted

WEAK

all over attached crazy over dear devoted doting fond huggy kind lovey-dovey mushy nutty about partial soft on tender

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aloof cold cool uncaring unfeeling unfriendly unsociable

WEAK

antagonistic disliking undemonstrative

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“He can swear and still be a gentleman if he does it in a nice and benevolent and affectionate way.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

Osbourne's widow, Sharon, and daughter Kelly, then took to the stage to deliver an affectionate eulogy.

From BBC • Feb. 28, 2026

“We’re known for being very romantic, affectionate people,” she explains.

From Salon • Feb. 14, 2026

As a bonus, she even offers up her cheek for a peck, which is as affectionate as things get between them.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 2, 2026

He reached out and gave her braid an affectionate tug.

From "When the Sea Turned to Silver" by Grace Lin