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

Motherhood may not have been her calling, but Sabrina Popo was a loving and affectionate grandmother. — Literary Hub, 16 Oct. 2026

Despite their stunning ensembles, their most important accessory was their obvious connection, shown through affectionate hugs, smiles, knowing glances, and mutual support. — Alessia Amorosini, Vanity Fair, 16 Oct. 2026

During Pedraza’s testimony, prosecutors highlighted how Pedraza was an affectionate mother to Sierra and his brother, Dayron Porrata. — Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026

Harjo and his team — including directors Scott Teems and Rafael Casal, who also plays Francis’ stepdad — have an affectionate eye for Oklahoma and its people. — Alison Herman, Variety, 14 Oct. 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