Endearment: meaning, definitions and examples

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endearment

 

[ ɪnˈdɪr.mənt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,100, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.