Affectionately Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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affectionately

[əˈfɛkʃənətli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

expressing love or fondness

In a way that shows love or fondness towards someone or something.

Synonyms

fondly, lovingly, tenderly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
affectionately	Used to express warmth and feelings of love or affection towards someone, typically in a gentle or kind manner. Suitable when addressing or describing interactions with loved ones, such as family or close friends. She spoke affectionately about her childhood memories with her grandmother He affectionately patted his dog after a long day
lovingly	Implies a deep, intense love and care in one's actions or speech. Commonly used in situations where strong expressions of love are involved, such as between romantic partners or close family members. She spoke lovingly to her husband after a long day apart He lovingly prepared dinner for his family
tenderly	Indicates gentle, kind, and caring behavior or speech. Often used in contexts where one shows soft emotional support or delicate care towards someone, typically during sensitive or intimate moments. She held the baby tenderly in her arms He expressed his feelings tenderly, hoping not to hurt her
fondly	Often utilized when recalling memories, showing a deep affection and warmth towards those memories or individuals involved. It can also be used when speaking warmly about someone you care about. He remembered his school days fondly, with a smile on his face She looked at her old photographs fondly

Examples of usage

She spoke to the puppy affectionately.
He hugged his grandmother affectionately.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

in a friendly manner

In a friendly or welcoming manner.

Synonyms

amicably, cordially, warmly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
affectionately	This word is best used when expressing love or deep fondness, often in personal relationships such as family or close friends. She spoke affectionately of her childhood memories. He bid her goodnight affectionately, with a soft kiss on her forehead.
warmly	This word works well in both personal and semi-formal contexts to express sincere and kind feelings, often related to greetings or farewells. She was warmly greeted by her old friends upon returning home. The host thanked everyone warmly for their attendance.
cordially	Use this word in formal or professional settings to convey politeness and warmth, often in written communication or official events. You are cordially invited to the annual award ceremony. He welcomed the new employee cordially to the office.
amicably	This term is suitable when describing friendly and peaceful relations, particularly in situations where there might be a potential for conflict, like resolving disputes or ending a relationship on good terms. They decided to divorce amicably, without any bitter arguments. The two companies settled their disagreement amicably.

Examples of usage

She greeted her old friend affectionately.
The host welcomed the guests affectionately.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'affectionately'

The word 'affectionately' is derived from the word 'affectionate', which comes from the Latin word 'affectionem', meaning 'a disposition, state of mind'. The adverb 'affectionately' first appeared in the English language in the 15th century, evolving from the Middle English word 'affeccioun'. It has been used to express love, fondness, and friendliness over the centuries.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,348, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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15345 authored
15346 repudiation
15347 denunciation
15348 affectionately
15349 consultative
15350 mediating
15351 girder
...