Word of the Day

: January 9, 2010

amicable

adjective AM-ih-kuh-bul

What It Means

: characterized by friendly goodwill : peaceable

amicable in Context

“About a million couples divorce each year in the United States, and most, like my ex and me, start out striving to keep the split amicable.” (Annie Finnigan, Family Circle, October 17, 2008)

Did You Know?

"Amicable," which derives from Late Latin "amicabilis," meaning "friendly," is one of a set of English words used to suggest cordial relationships. "Amicable," "neighborly," "companionable," and "friendly" all mean marked by or exhibiting goodwill and an absence of antagonism. "Amicable" implies a state of peace and a desire on the part of the parties not to quarrel ("they maintained amicable relations"; "the amicable process of bargaining"). "Neighborly" implies a disposition to live on good terms with others, particularly those who are nearby, and to be helpful on principle ("neighborly concern"). "Companionable" suggests sociability and companionship ("a companionable dinner with friends"). "Friendly" stresses cordiality and often warmth or intimacy of personal relations ("a friendly correspondence").