Definitions

affectionately

[uh-fek-shuh-nit-lee] / əˈfɛk ʃə nɪt li /

ADVERB

dearly

Synonyms

WEAK

devotedly fondly tenderly yearningly

Antonyms

WEAK

hatefully

ADVERB

kindly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

delicately generously genially graciously helpfully politely sympathetically tenderly thoughtfully

WEAK

agreeably benevolently benignly carefully charitably compassionately considerately cordially courteously good-naturedly heedfully humanely solicitously tolerantly understandingly well

Antonyms

WEAK

disagreeably inconsiderately unkindly

ADVERB

lovingly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

admiringly earnestly fondly longingly passionately respectfully reverently thoughtfully warmly zealously

WEAK

adoringly appreciatively ardently attentively considerately devotedly dotingly endearingly enrapturedly fervently generously impassionedly kindly loyally rapturously yearningly

ADVERB

sympathetically

Synonyms

STRONGEST

appreciatively kindly warmly

WEAK

benevolently compatibly cordially emotionally feelingly harmoniously heartily humanely kindheartedly perceptively responsively softheartedly understandingly warmheartedly

ADVERB

tenderly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

fondly

WEAK

adoringly

ADVERB

warmly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

lovingly passionately

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.

The result has been an affront to many in Tree Town, as Ann Arbor is affectionately known, leaving many trees looking more like something out of a Dr. Seuss book.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 12, 2026

The "Nerd Prom" as attendees affectionately call it brings together hundreds of Washington journalists and media executives to raise funds for scholarships and awards.

From Barron's • Apr. 25, 2026

Tom Walne, or Farmer Tom as he is more affectionately known across Suffolk, said the peacock appeared at his farm near Copdock on Monday.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

“The Blue Trail” doesn’t shoot her exploitatively, just affectionately.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

But she always made such excellent excuses, and purred so affectionately, that it was impossible not to believe in her good intentions.

From "Animal Farm: A Fairy Story" by George Orwell

affectionately

Example Sentences

Related Words