endearing
UK: ɪnˈdɪərɪŋ | US: ɪnˈdɪrɪŋ
adj. inspiring affection or warmth
vt. (present participle of "endear") making someone beloved or cherished
The word "endearing" combines the verb "endear" (from "en-"<cause to be> + "dear"<beloved>) with the suffix "-ing," forming an adjective or present participle. "Dear" traces back to Old English "dēore," meaning precious or costly, reflecting how affection elevates someone's value. Over time, "endear" evolved to describe actions that inspire love, and "-ing" extended its function to describe qualities that evoke warmth.
Her endearing smile made everyone feel welcome.
The child’s endearing habit of sharing toys touched the teachers.
He wrote an endearing letter to his grandmother.
The puppy’s playful antics were utterly endearing.
Their endearing traditions brought the family closer together.