affectionate

adjective

af·​fec·​tion·​ate ə-ˈfek-sh(ə-)nət 

1

: feeling or showing affection or warm regard : loving

affectionate friends

an affectionate nickname

2

: motivated by affection : tender

affectionate care

3

obsolete : inclined, disposed

affectionately adverb

Synonyms of affectionate

• loving
• adoring

Examples of affectionate in a Sentence

an affectionate child who gives hugs and kisses freely

Recent Examples on the Web

Cristian, who goes by CJ, is a cheerful and affectionate young boy who brings joy to those around him with his frequent smiles and laughter. —CBS News, 1 Apr. 2026

Deeply affectionate and laugh-out-loud funny, this delightful comedy is the directorial debut of Maude Apatow. —Matthew Carey, Deadline, 31 Mar. 2026

Helm is the curious, mercurial, impish, affectionate and dangerous air current of the English Pennines, swooping over the Eden District from prehistory until now. —The Know, Denver Post, 29 Mar. 2026

Jeremiah is a friendly, affectionate and respectful teen who is known for his polite manners and eagerness to help others. —The Star, Kansas City Star, 28 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

partly borrowed from Medieval Latin affectiōnātus "inclined, disposed, well-disposed," from Latin affectiōn-, affectiō affection + -ātus -ate entry 3; partly formed from affection + -ate entry 3 after Middle French affectionné "having affection for," past participle of affectionner "to have affection for," derivative of affection

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Kids Definition

affectionate

adjective

af·​fec·​tion·​ate ə-ˈfek-sh(ə-)nət 

: feeling or showing a great liking for a person or thing : loving

affectionately adverb