SOCIABLE Synonyms: 138 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'sociable' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of sociable are affable , cordial , genial , and gracious . While all these words mean "markedly pleasant and easy in social intercourse," sociable suggests a genuine liking for the companionship of others. // sociable people who enjoy entertaining

Q: In what contexts can 'affable' take the place of 'sociable'?

Although the words affable and sociable have much in common, affable implies easy approachability and readiness to respond pleasantly to conversation or requests or proposals. // though wealthy, she was affable to all

Q: When could 'cordial' be used to replace 'sociable'?

While in some cases nearly identical to sociable , cordial stresses warmth and heartiness. // our host was cordial as he greeted us

Q: Where would 'genial' be a reasonable alternative to 'sociable'?

In some situations, the words genial and sociable are roughly equivalent. However, genial stresses cheerfulness and even joviality. // a genial companion with a ready quip

Q: When is 'gracious' a more appropriate choice than 'sociable'?

While the synonyms gracious and sociable are close in meaning, gracious implies courtesy and kindly consideration. // the gracious award winner thanked her colleagues

sociable

adjective

ˈsō-shə-bəl

Definition of sociable next

as in outgoing

likely to seek or enjoy the company of others he's an intensely sociable child, even prone to fits of depression when he's left alone

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in gracious

showing a natural kindness and courtesy especially in social situations a pleasant and sociable hostess who puts everyone instantly at ease

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in social

tending to group with others of the same kind the sociable weaverbird breeds in large umbrella-shaped nests

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word sociable different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of sociable are affable, cordial, genial, and gracious. While all these words mean "markedly pleasant and easy in social intercourse," sociable suggests a genuine liking for the companionship of others.

sociable people who enjoy entertaining

In what contexts can affable take the place of sociable?

Although the words affable and sociable have much in common, affable implies easy approachability and readiness to respond pleasantly to conversation or requests or proposals.

though wealthy, she was affable to all

When could cordial be used to replace sociable?

While in some cases nearly identical to sociable, cordial stresses warmth and heartiness.

our host was cordial as he greeted us

Where would genial be a reasonable alternative to sociable?

In some situations, the words genial and sociable are roughly equivalent. However, genial stresses cheerfulness and even joviality.

a genial companion with a ready quip

When is gracious a more appropriate choice than sociable?

While the synonyms gracious and sociable are close in meaning, gracious implies courtesy and kindly consideration.

the gracious award winner thanked her colleagues

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of sociable She is described as very sociable and enjoys making new friends. —

Mare Staff, Boston Herald, 5 May 2024 There’s actually some science to it—a study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that people shown photos of homes decked out in Christmas decorations perceived the residents as friendlier and more sociable compared to undecorated homes. —

Brandi D. Addison, Austin American-Statesman, 27 Nov. 2024 These animals are known for their friendly and sociable nature, and have become a popular tourist attraction in countries like Brazil and Japan, where capybara cafes offer people the chance to hang out with the rodents and pet them. —

Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 26 Dec. 2024 Achievements aside, Ryan Wallace was remembered for his radiating kindness and generosity and for having a highly sociable personality with the ability to bring people together. —

Bianca Moreno-Paz, Austin American-Statesman, 29 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sociable

Recent Examples of Synonyms for sociable

Adjective

The billionaire said the Treasury Department and DOGE had agreed to require all outgoing government payments to include a rationale in the form of a comment and to have a categorization code.

— Lauren Villagran, USA TODAY, 14 Feb. 2025
The Mountain West is currently being sued by the Pac-12 and some of the outgoing Mountain West schools over the exit and poaching fees, which total almost $150 million.

— Chris Vannini, The Athletic, 14 Feb. 2025