noun
endearment
noun
1
A word or phrase that expresses affection, such as "sweetheart" or "darling."
"He greeted her with a term of endearment."
"Her grandmother always used old-fashioned endearments like "my dear.""
2
The act or state of causing someone to feel loved or valued.
"Small gestures of endearment kept their marriage strong."
How to Use Endearment
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMost often heard in the phrase "term of endearment" — an affectionate nickname or word.
Common pairings
term of endearment
words of endearment
Word Forms
endearments plural
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He greeted her with a term of _____.
Etymology
From endear plus the noun-forming suffix -ment.