Sweetheart Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sweetheart

[ˈswiːt.hɑːt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

term of endearment

A sweetheart is a person who is loved very much by their partner, typically used as a term of endearment.

Synonyms

beloved, darling, love.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sweetheart	This term is used to refer to someone loved, typically a romantic partner. It's often used in a slightly casual or affectionate tone. You are my sweetheart. Good morning, sweetheart!
love	This is a very versatile term used to show affection. It can be used conversationally, between both romantic partners and close friends, and even in a platonic context. Hey, love, how was your day? Love, could you help me with this?
darling	Used to show affection, 'darling' works well in both casual and more intimate settings. It can also be used in a slightly old-fashioned or endearing way. Thank you, darling. Darling, can you pass the salt?
beloved	This word is more formal and poetic, often used to express deep and enduring affection, sometimes even in a solemn or serious context. She is my beloved wife. He wrote letters to his beloved.

Examples of usage

He's always been my sweetheart.
She's my sweetheart, my love.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

affectionate term for a close friend

In a more general sense, a sweetheart can also refer to a close friend with whom one shares a deep bond and affection.

Synonyms

companion, confidant, friend.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sweetheart	Used to address someone you are romantically involved with or have affection for, often in a loving and tender way. Good morning, sweetheart. Did you sleep well? My sweetheart surprised me with flowers on our anniversary.
friend	A person who you like and enjoy being with, who provides companionship and support, but usually without romantic ties. My friend and I often go to the movies together. She has been a loyal friend since childhood.
companion	Used to refer to someone with whom you spend a lot of time, often sharing activities or travel. The term is not necessarily romantic. My companion and I hiked through the mountains for three days. She has been my faithful companion through all these years.
confidant	Refers to a person you trust deeply and share your private thoughts and feelings with, often involving a level of intimate trust. He is my closest confidant, I can tell him anything. During tough times, she became my confidant and support system.

Examples of usage

She's not just a friend, she's my sweetheart.
He's been my sweetheart since childhood.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

Many songs and movies feature the term 'sweetheart', often portraying a romantic connection.
The phrase 'my sweetheart' became popular in postcards and love letters in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Television shows regularly showcase characters calling each other 'sweetheart' to express affection.

Psychology

Using affectionate terms like 'sweetheart' can enhance emotional bonds and increase feelings of intimacy.
Couples who use pet names for each other, including 'sweetheart', often report higher relationship satisfaction.
Terms of endearment can help alleviate stress and create a comforting environment in relationships.

Literature

Classic poets often used the term in their verses to convey deep emotions and romantic sentiments.
In Shakespeare's works, terms of endearment like 'sweetheart' were used to show love and passion.
'Sweetheart' appears in various novels to emphasize characters’ affection for one another.

Historical Usage

In the 18th century, 'sweetheart' was commonly used among courting couples in England.
The term has also evolved through media, impacting its use in different cultures and languages.
Decades ago, 'sweetheart' could be heard frequently in American vernacular as a casual term of endearment.

Origin of 'sweetheart'

Main points about word origin

The word combines 'sweet', meaning kind or pleasing, and 'heart', which symbolizes love and emotion.
It has been used since the 14th century in English literature to refer affectionately to loved ones.
In older texts, it often referred to romantic partners but has broadened to friends and family.

The word 'sweetheart' dates back to the early 13th century when it was used to refer to a loved one or a beloved person. The term combines 'sweet,' meaning pleasing to the senses or mind, and 'heart,' symbolizing love and affection. Over the centuries, 'sweetheart' has remained a popular term of endearment, expressing deep affection and love towards a person. It is commonly used in romantic relationships as well as friendships to convey feelings of warmth and attachment.

See also: sweet, sweetener, sweetening, sweetness, sweets.