Babe: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used as an affectionate term for a romantic partner, often informal and trendy.

• Hey babe, how was your day?
• Babe, can you pass me the salt?

Can be used both as an affectionate term for a romantic partner or to refer to a very young child.

• Don't cry, baby, everything will be alright.
• Do you think the baby is hungry?

Used in a formal context to refer to a very young child, typically under one year old.

• The infant is sleeping in the nursery.
• Infants require a lot of care and attention.

An endearing term used for a romantic partner, can also be used for children in a gentle, affectionate manner.

• Goodnight, sweetheart.
• Sweetheart, have you finished your homework?

Used informally to address or refer to a loved one, often romantically or playfully. Can be used by both genders.

• Hey babe, how was your day?
• You're my babe and I love you so much.

A casual and colloquial term to describe someone who is very attractive. Often used among friends and sometimes includes a slight connotation of objectification.

• Check out that hottie over there!
• You’re such a hottie in that outfit.

Describes someone attractive, focusing on physical appearance rather than affection. Can be used more generally to compliment someone.

• She walked into the room, and everyone noticed her beauty.
• He's not just a pretty face; his beauty runs deeper.

Refers to a person, usually male, who is exceptionally attractive and often the object of widespread romantic admiration.

• The movie star became a teenage heartthrob overnight.
• Every magazine featured the heartthrob musician on the cover.