Lovable

/ˈlʌvəbəl/ adjective

Definition

Easy to love or inspire affection in others because of being kind, gentle, or charming.

Etymology

From 'love' combined with the suffix '-able' (capable of being), creating a word meaning 'capable of being loved.' This construction became common in English around 1600.

Kelly Says

Psychologists note that 'lovable' differs from 'likable'—you can like someone's sense of humor but not love their character, which is why calling someone truly 'lovable' is a deeper compliment.

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