endearment

noun

en·​dear·​ment in-ˈdir-mənt How to pronounce endearment (audio)
1
: a word or an act (such as a caress) expressing affection
2
: the act or process of endearing

Examples of endearment in a Sentence

two lovers whispering endearments to each other
Recent Examples on the Web The community Elder—a term of endearment and respect conferred onto her by her community—hosts experiences centered on Aboriginal art and Dreamtime stories, local history and culture, as well as educational food talks. Riley Wilson, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Oct. 2024 It’s also not meant to be used as a term of endearment for babies, Cao notes. Marilyn La Jeunesse, Parents, 23 Sep. 2024 Is wifey a term of endearment—not to be confused with the actual wife? James R. Sanders, VIBE.com, 16 Aug. 2024 Whiting has posted dozens of comments on fan pages — along with terms and emojis of endearment— about the singer. Robert Anglen, The Arizona Republic, 12 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for endearment 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'endearment.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1610, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of endearment was in 1610

Dictionary Entries Near endearment

Cite this Entry

“Endearment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/endearment. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

endearment

noun
en·​dear·​ment in-ˈdi(ə)r-mənt How to pronounce endearment (audio)
: a word or an act (as a caress) showing love or affection
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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