Sweethearts: meaning, definitions and examples
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sweethearts
[ ˈswiːthɑːrt ]
romantic relationship
A sweetheart is a beloved person, often used to refer to a romantic partner or significant other. The term can also be applied affectionately to friends or family members. Sweethearts are often associated with love, tenderness, and caring.
Synonyms
beloved, darling, dear, sweetie.
Examples of usage
- She wrote a letter to her sweetheart.
- They have been sweethearts since high school.
- He surprised his sweetheart with flowers.
Etymology
The word 'sweetheart' dates back to the late 14th century, originally combining 'sweet' and 'heart' to describe a person with a gentle or kind heart. 'Sweet' comes from the Old English 'swēte,' which meant pleasant or agreeable, while 'heart' derives from the Old English 'heorte,' referring to the organ as well as the emotional center of a person. Initially, it was used to denote a person who was dear or beloved, often in a romantic context. Over the centuries, the term sweetened in connotation, becoming synonymous with the idea of love and affection. By the 17th century, 'sweetheart' was commonly used in literature and poetry to describe a romantic partner, and it continues to be a popular term of endearment today.