Endearment: meaning, definitions and examples
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endearment
[ ɪnˈdɪr.mənt ]
terms of affection
Endearment refers to a word or phrase that expresses affection or love towards someone. It can be a form of address that shows tenderness, warmth, or special regard. Common examples include terms like 'dear', 'sweetheart', and 'darling'. Using endearments can strengthen emotional bonds and convey intimacy in relationships. They are often used among family members, romantic partners, or close friends.
Synonyms
affectionate term, loving word, pet name, term of affection.
Examples of usage
- She always calls him 'honey' as a term of endearment.
- His mother used various endearments when speaking to him.
- They exchanged endearments throughout the evening.
- Her favorite endearment for her dog was 'puppy'.
Translations
Translations of the word "endearment" in other languages:
🇵🇹 carinho
🇮🇳 प्रेम
🇩🇪 Zärtlichkeit
🇮🇩 kasih sayang
🇺🇦 ласка
🇵🇱 czułość
🇯🇵 愛情
🇫🇷 affection
🇪🇸 cariño
🇹🇷 sevgili
🇰🇷 애정
🇸🇦 عاطفة
🇨🇿 náklonnost
🇸🇰 náklonnosť
🇨🇳 亲昵
🇸🇮 nežnost
🇮🇸 ást
🇰🇿 сүйіспеншілік
🇬🇪 სიყვარული
🇦🇿 sevgi
🇲🇽 cariño
Etymology
The word 'endearment' has its origins in the early 15th century, derived from the Middle English term 'endearen', which means 'to make dear or beloved'. This itself comes from the combination of 'en-', a prefix meaning 'to make', and 'dear', which has Anglo-Saxon roots. The word 'dear' originated from the Old English 'deore', meaning 'precious', 'valuable', or 'beloved'. Over the centuries, the meaning of endearment has evolved to specifically refer to affectionate expressions towards loved ones. The concept of endearment is prevalent in many cultures, often reflecting the close bonds that people share with one another. In literature and everyday speech, endearments serve to enhance emotional connections and demonstrate love and care.