loving

adjective

lov·​ing ˈlə-viŋ How to pronounce loving (audio)
Synonyms of lovingnext
lovingly adverb
lovingness noun

Examples of loving in a Sentence

The old house has undergone a loving restoration. they were a loving family, supporting each other when times were bad
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.
While acknowledging that antisemites may have good characteristics—a loving husband, a generous and conscientious citizen—Sartre claimed that their hatred ultimately defines them. Livia Gershon, JSTOR Daily, 8 May 2026 Morales' sister Jasmine Perez still remembers her as a joyful and loving person. Mason Leath, ABC News, 8 May 2026 The Princess of Wales and The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood launched the new resource, which highlights the role of loving and responsive relationships play in the well-being of young children. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 6 May 2026 Wright's family described her as a loving mother and grandmother. Cbs New York Team, CBS News, 6 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for loving

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of loving was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Loving.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loving. Accessed 11 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

loving

adjective
lov·​ing
ˈləv-iŋ
: feeling or showing love : affectionate
loving care
a loving glance
lovingly adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on loving

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster