endearment
en-DEER-munt
/ɪnˈdɪə.mənt/
A word or phrase expressing love or affection.
Usually used in the plural ('terms of endearment'). These are the 'pet names' like 'honey' or 'darling.'
The story behind the word. It is a simple English construction: to 'endear' someone is to make them 'dear' (precious) to you. The 'ment' suffix turns the action into the thing being said.
Word relationships
- pet name: 'Pet name' is more informal; 'endearment' is the more formal noun.
- affection: 'Affection' is the feeling; 'endearment' is the word spoken.
- insult: A disrespectful or scornfully abusive remark.
Commonly confused with
- endear: 'Endear' is the verb (to make liked); 'endearment' is the noun (the word used).
Word family
- endear (verb): To cause to be loved or liked.
- endearing (adjective): Inspiring affection.
Collocations
- term of endearment
- whisper endearments
- exchange endearments
Example sentences
- "'Sweetheart' was his favorite term of endearment for his wife." Describing a couple's communication.
- "Terms of Endearment." A famous movie title. (1983 film starring Shirley MacLaine and Debra Winger)
Memory hook
An 'endearment' makes someone 'dear' to you. Endearment: Words for your 'dear' ones.
When not to use
Don't use to describe the feeling itself, but rather the expression of that feeling.
Fun facts
- Linguists have found that 'baby talk' between romantic partners (using endearments) actually helps strengthen their emotional bond.
Also appears in
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