Synonyms of affectionate

affectionate

adjective

ə-ˈfek-sh(ə-)nət 

as in loving

feeling or showing love

an affectionate child who gives hugs and kisses freely

Synonyms & Similar Words

• loving
• adoring
• passionate
• warm
• devoted
• fond
• compassionate
• caring
• tender
• tenderhearted
• friendly
• kind
• doting
• considerate
• romantic
• impassioned
• humane
• amorous
• fervent
• warmhearted
• erotic
• understanding
• cordial
• forgiving
• ardent
• amatory
• sentimental
• infatuated
• fatherly
• motherly
• brotherly
• lovesick
• sisterly
• sappy
• mushy
• enamored
• lovey-dovey

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• aloof
• unloving
• indifferent
• distant
• dry
• detached
• antisocial
• pitiless
• cool
• remote
• standoffish
• uncaring
• reserved
• unbending
• unfeeling
• frosty
• offish
• unconcerned
• disaffected
• uninvolved
• unfriendly
• cold
• hard-hearted
• frigid
• ruthless
• callous
• heartless
• unsentimental
• unromantic
• cold-eyed
• soulless
• cold-blooded
• hard-boiled

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of affectionate

Along the way, the animal attracts plenty of delighted squeals, affectionate greetings and eager requests from passersby for a photo together. — ABC News, 15 June 2026

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

Beyond shedding, Beagles are friendly and affectionate dogs. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 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