Definition of sociablenext
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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 Both are charming, sociable and irresistible, drawing others in while on daily walks or at any gathering. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 29 Oct. 2025 Despite always seeming to be hungry, Clark said Sanaa was a kind, sociable and curious little girl. Perry Vandell, AZCentral.com, 29 Sep. 2025 Most members of the sandpiper family tend to be sociable. Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025 Lilly is a Libra who has a creative and sociable side to her, which isn’t in line with Harper’s vibe. Lisa Stardust, People.com, 8 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sociable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sociable
Adjective
  • Chance, a redshirt sophomore next season, should be a plug-and-play replacement for outgoing punter Ethan Craw.
    Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 Jan. 2026
  • The outgoing traffic on the University of Arkansas football roster continued at a steady pace Friday, headlined by starting offensive lineman and in-state standout E'Marion Harris, as the NCAA transfer portal officially opened for the only time this year.
    Tom Murphy, Arkansas Online, 3 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • After the initial encounter, sending a brief email or text is both gracious and strategic.
    Amy Lindgren, Twin Cities, 8 Nov. 2025
  • Our recipe hails from Mary Ada Marshall, a resident of Smith Island, who was gracious enough to share her recipe.
    Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • The condition, which can cause a wide array of neurological problems, can result in seizures or difficulty with communication and social interaction, according to Medline.
    Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 8 Jan. 2026
  • Bailey served as Randal Taylor’s assistant chief for four years between 2020 and 2024, a turbulent time for the department marked by social justice protests, an explosion in police action shootings and police staffing shortages.
    Jordan Smith, IndyStar, 8 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Head to Amazon now to shop even more petite-friendly comfy pants, and keep scrolling to check out the rest of my favorite picks.
    Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Looking for more cold-weather-friendly sets?
    Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 10 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Repair bare spots in the lawn to make your yard less hospitable for ground-nesting bees.
    Arricca Elin SanSone, Southern Living, 5 Nov. 2025
  • The public radio system was not especially hospitable to experimental work.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 4 Nov. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sociable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sociable. Accessed 10 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on sociable

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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