Romantic: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe an atmosphere, gesture, or interest associated with love and emotional connection, often with a dreamy or idealistic quality.

• They enjoyed a romantic dinner by candlelight.
• The movie had a romantic storyline that captured everyone's heart.

Usually refers to sexual or romantic desire, often in a suggestive or sometimes overly intimate way. It can sometimes carry a negative or overly intense connotation.

• He sent her amorous letters every week.
• The novel's protagonist found himself in an amorous affair that complicated his life.

Used to express strong emotions, often relating to love or intense enthusiasm for someone or something. It can also refer to strong physical desire.

• They shared a passionate kiss under the stars.
• She spoke in a passionate tone about her love for painting.

Describes showing fondness or tenderness, often through physical touch or caring actions. It can be used for both romantic and non-romantic relationships.

• She gave him an affectionate hug.
• The affectionate bond between the mother and her child was obvious.

Most suitable for describing a person or situation that emphasizes love and passion, often characterized by idealism and an imaginative view of relationships.

• She planned a romantic dinner for their anniversary
• He is a hopeless romantic, always bringing her flowers and writing love poems

Used to describe someone who is heavily influenced by emotions and often indulges in nostalgic or tender feelings, sometimes considered overly emotional or mawkish.

• He's a sentimentalist who keeps old love letters and souvenirs from past relationships
• The movie appealed to sentimentalists with its touching and heartwarming story

Best used to describe someone who is often lost in their own thoughts and fantasies, sometimes seen as impractical or unrealistic about life.

• He's a dreamer who spends his days imagining new worlds
• Writers and artists are often dreamers, inspired by their vivid imaginations

Commonly applied to describe someone who is in a romantic or sexual relationship with another person. It can also refer to someone who has a strong passion for something.

• He waited for his lover at the café
• She is a lover of classical music and attends concerts regularly