fondness

noun

fond·​ness ˈfän(d)-nəs How to pronounce fondness (audio)
Synonyms of fondnessnext
1
obsolete : foolishness, folly
2
: tender affection
3
: appetite, relish
had a fondness for argument

Examples of fondness in a Sentence

my fondness for you will never fail I have a fondness for expensive chocolate.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The trio’s mix of jazz standards and original compositions set them apart from other groups, as did their avant-garde leanings and fondness for minor keys. Literary Hub, 17 Feb. 2026 O'Sullivan says his decision doesn't diminish his fondness for the state that raised him. Derek James, CBS News, 16 Feb. 2026 In turbulent political times, stability comes with four legs, whiskers and a fondness for napping. Jill Lawless, Chicago Tribune, 15 Feb. 2026 The film casually reinforces its point here that women of the period had few good options, but the scenes also reveal the almost imperceptible development of mutual fondness between husband and wife. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 15 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fondness

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fondness was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fondness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fondness. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.

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