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

While many cats make for independent pets who can entertain themselves, there are some breeds who are exceptionally affectionate. —Madeline Gunderson, USA Today, 12 June 2026

Maintain a predictable parenting environment Parenting is a full time job complete with its own anxieties—but parents can learn to celebrate their unique children and provide caregiving and responses that are thoughtful, consistent, and affectionate. —Taylor Grothe, Parents, 11 June 2026

Rather than the vitriol usually reserved for star players on opposing teams, Wembanyama has been met instead with an affectionate curiosity from some fans and a reluctant respect from others. —Leah Asmelash, CNN Money, 9 June 2026

In a few photos, the pair gazed into each other's eyes with warm, affectionate expressions. —Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 6 June 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