endearment
en-DEER-muhnt
/ɪnˈdɪərmənt/
A word or act expressing affection.
Often refers to pet names (like 'honey' or 'darling') or physical gestures that show fondness.
The story behind the word. Formed from the English verb 'endear' (to make dear), which comes from the Old English 'deore', meaning precious, costly, or highly loved.
Word relationships
- pet name: A pet name is specifically a verbal label, whereas an endearment can be either a word or a physical gesture.
- insult: An insult is a disrespectful or scornful remark, the exact opposite of an endearment.
Commonly confused with
- entrapment: Entrapment is the state of being caught in a trap, while endearment is an expression of love.
Word family
- endear (verb): Cause to be loved or liked.
- endearing (adjective): Inspiring affection.
- endearingly (adverb): In an endearing manner.
Collocations
- term of endearment
- act of endearment
- whisper endearments
- words of endearment
Example sentences
- "'Darling' and 'sweetheart' are common terms of endearment used between romantic partners." A description of romantic habits
Memory hook
An 'endearment' makes someone 'dear' to your heart. Making someone dear
When not to use
Do not use for formal expressions of respect or professional courtesy.
Fun facts
- The oldest recorded term of endearment in English is 'darling', which has been in use since at least the 9th century.
Related words
Also appears in
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.