Likable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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likable

[หˆlaษชkษ™bษ™l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

personality trait

Having qualities that make someone easy to like; pleasant, friendly, and easy to get along with.

Synonyms

amiable, appealing, friendly, pleasant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
likable

Used to describe someone or something that is easy to like or enjoy.

  • He is such a likable character in the movie
  • The new teacher is very likable; everyone enjoys her lessons
pleasant

Used to describe an experience, person, or thing that gives a sense of happiness and satisfaction. It is often neutral in tone.

  • We had a pleasant afternoon at the park
  • She has a pleasant voice that is nice to listen to
friendly

Describes someone who is kind, helpful, and pleasant to be around. Commonly used in everyday language.

  • Our neighbors are very friendly, always willing to lend a hand
  • He has a friendly smile that makes everyone feel welcome
amiable

Describes someone who is friendly and pleasant in a warm and good-natured way. Often used in formal or written contexts.

  • She greeted everyone with an amiable smile
  • Despite the challenges, he remained amiable and approachable
appealing

Used to describe something or someone that attracts interest or desire. It can be used for people, objects, or ideas.

  • The idea of a summer vacation in the mountains is very appealing
  • Her new hairstyle is quite appealing

Examples of usage

  • She is a likable person with a warm smile.
  • His likable nature makes him popular among his colleagues.
  • The character in the movie is portrayed as likable and charming.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that people are often drawn to likable individuals due to their positive social traits, such as kindness.
  • First impressions play a large role in likability; factors such as body language and smiling can greatly influence perceptions.
  • Being likable can enhance personal and professional relationships, leading to better collaboration and teamwork.

Pop Culture

  • Popular public figures, from entertainers to politicians, often cultivate a likable image to connect with their audience.
  • Television characters are frequently designed to be likable to increase viewer attachment and investment in the story.
  • The term is often used in reviews and critiques, where books, movies, or performers are described as endearing and charming.

Literature

  • In storytelling, likable characters often undergo challenges that allow them to showcase their positive traits, making readers root for them.
  • Authors often create detailed backstories for likable characters to deepen readersโ€™ emotional connections.
  • Contrast between likable and unlikable characters is a common tool in literature to highlight moral lessons and themes.

Origin of 'likable'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Likable' comes from the word 'like' with the addition of the suffix '-able,' meaning 'capable of being liked.'
  • The word has been in use since the early 19th century, gaining popularity in English to describe pleasant personalities.
  • In Hyphenated forms, 'likeable' is often seen in British English, while 'likable' is standard in American English.

The word 'likable' originated from the combination of 'like' and the suffix '-able', which means 'capable of'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century. The term gained popularity as a descriptor for individuals who possess qualities that make them easy to like and get along with. Over time, 'likable' has become a common adjective used to characterize people, characters, or things that evoke positive feelings and are pleasing to others.


See also: alike, alikeness, dislike, disliked, like, likelihood, likely, liken, likeness, likewise, liking, unlike, unlikeliness.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,636, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.