fondness

IPA

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Dictionary definition of fondness

A strong liking, affection, or preference for someone or something.
"Her fondness for adventure led her to travel to remote places and explore new cultures."

Detailed meaning of fondness

It denotes a feeling of warmth, tenderness, or endearment towards a person, an object, an activity, or an idea. Fondness implies a positive emotional connection or attachment, often accompanied by a sense of pleasure or delight. It can arise from various factors, such as shared experiences, admiration, familiarity, or personal affinity. Fondness can manifest in different ways, including displaying acts of kindness, showing interest and enthusiasm, or experiencing a deep sense of satisfaction and happiness in the presence or thought of the object of fondness. It is a sentiment that often fosters a sense of closeness, comfort, and a desire to nurture and protect what one is fond of.

Example sentences containing fondness

1. He had a fondness for classical music and would spend hours listening to symphonies.
2. As a child, she developed a fondness for animals and dreamed of becoming a veterinarian.
3. His fondness for spicy food led him to explore various cuisines from around the world.
4. She couldn't hide her fondness for romantic comedies, even though she claimed to prefer action movies.
5. The elderly couple showed great fondness for each other, holding hands and exchanging loving glances.
6. The child's fondness for drawing was evident in the colorful artwork displayed on the walls.

History and etymology of fondness

The noun 'fondness' is derived from the adjective 'fond,' which originally meant 'foolish' or 'foolishly affectionate' in Middle English. It can be traced back to the Old English word 'fandian,' which meant 'to try to experience or understand.' Over time, the sense of 'fond' evolved to describe a strong liking, affection, or preference for someone or something. It came to signify a tender and affectionate regard for a person or an object. The etymology of 'fondness' reflects its historical connection to the idea of having a warm and affectionate attachment, emphasizing the emotional connection and the positive sentiment that one feels toward the object of their fondness.

Quiz: Find the meaning of fondness

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Further usage examples of fondness

1. He had a fondness for collecting vintage stamps and had an impressive collection.
2. She developed a fondness for gardening and spent her weekends tending to her plants.
3. The actor expressed his fondness for the theater and always looked forward to performing on stage.
4. Her fondness for reading started at a young age and continued throughout her life.
5. The chef's fondness for experimenting with flavors resulted in unique and delicious dishes.
6. He had a fondness for adventure and would often embark on spontaneous road trips.
7. The child's fondness for puzzles and problem-solving showed his natural curiosity and intelligence.
8. She had a fondness for old photographs, cherishing the memories captured in each snapshot.
9. The teacher's fondness for her students was evident in the way she patiently guided and supported them.
10. He had a fondness for vintage cars and spent countless hours restoring and maintaining them.
11. The young girl had a fondness for ballet and spent hours practicing her dance moves.
12. His fondness for camping led him to explore remote wilderness areas and experience the beauty of nature.
13. She developed a fondness for hiking and would often venture into the mountains to enjoy the scenic trails.
14. The grandmother's fondness for knitting resulted in a wardrobe filled with warm and cozy handmade sweaters.