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Doting: meaning, definitions and examples

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doting

 

[ ˈdoʊtɪŋ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

affectionate behavior

Doting refers to demonstrating excessive love or fondness towards someone, often to the point of being overly indulgent or lenient. It is commonly used in the context of parents or caregivers who excessively pamper or spoil their children. While doting relates to genuine affection, it can also imply a lack of discipline due to the oversupply of love. People who are described as doting often display behaviors that are nurturing and protective, showing a deep emotional bond with the object of their affection.

Synonyms

adoring, devoted, fond, overindulgent

Examples of usage

  • She is a doting grandmother who spoils her grandchildren.
  • His doting nature made him a beloved father amongst his children.
  • The doting teacher always went the extra mile for her students.

Translations

Translations of the word "doting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 afetuoso

🇮🇳 लाड़ प्यार करने वाला

🇩🇪 verwöhnend

🇮🇩 mengasihi

🇺🇦 пестливий

🇵🇱 roztkliwiony

🇯🇵 甘やかす

🇫🇷 gâté

🇪🇸 mimoso

🇹🇷 şımartan

🇰🇷 애정 어린

🇸🇦 مدلل

🇨🇿 rozmazlovat

🇸🇰 rozmaznávajúci

🇨🇳 溺爱

🇸🇮 razvajajoč

🇮🇸 yfirgefinn

🇰🇿 мейірімді

🇬🇪 აღმატებული

🇦🇿 şımartma

🇲🇽 mimoso

Word origin

The term 'doting' originated from the early 16th century and is derived from the verb 'dote', which comes from the Middle English 'doten', meaning 'to dote or to be foolishly fond'. This, in turn, is believed to have been influenced by the word 'dotard', which referred to an old person who is weak-minded or senile, highlighting the irrational aspects of excessive affection. Over time, 'dote' evolved to emphasize the adoration and excessive fondness characteristic of a caregiver's behavior, particularly associated with parents and grandparents. The term encapsulates both the positive connotations of love and tenderness and the negative implications of indulgence and lack of judgment, reflecting the complexities of affectionate relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,701, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.