affectionate

UK: əˈfekʃənət | US: əˈfekʃənət

Definition

  1. adj. showing fondness or tenderness; loving

  2. adj. expressing warmth or care in behavior

Structure
affect <to influence, from Latin *affectare*>ion <noun suffix>ate <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "affectionate" traces back to the Latin affectare, meaning "to strive for" or "to influence," derived from afficere (to act on). Over time, affectio in Late Latin evolved to mean "emotion" or "fondness." The suffix -ion nominalized the verb, while -ate later converted it into an adjective. The shift from "influence" to "emotional attachment" reflects how actions (affecting others) became associated with tender feelings.

Examples

  1. She gave her dog an affectionate pat on the head.

  2. His affectionate words made her feel cherished.

  3. The couple exchanged affectionate glances.

  4. An affectionate bond grew between the siblings.

  5. The letter ended with an affectionate "Yours always."