love affair

noun

1. a romantic relationship or episode between lovers; an amour.
2. an active enthusiasm for something:

   my love affair with sailing.

love affair

noun

1. a romantic or sexual relationship, esp a temporary one, between two people
2. a great enthusiasm or liking for something

   a love affair with ballet

Word History and Origins

Origin of love affair¹

First recorded in 1585–95

Example Sentences

In yet another directorial gambit, Gold’s “Romeo + Juliet” looks, sounds and no doubt smells like teen spirit in a production determined to ignite a new generation’s love affair with the play.

From Los Angeles Times

The lyrics contemplate the fleeting nature of time and the loss of innocence, set against the backdrop of a love affair that's hit the rocks.

From BBC

That love affair began when, as a teen, he worked at a movie theater in Budapest and was dazzled by the jazz musicians who performed in American movies.

From Los Angeles Times

But it is about a love affair of sorts.

From Los Angeles Times

Bernardine Evaristo's ground-breaking novel Mr Loverman was released in 2013, telling the story of a married 74-year-old Antiguan-born Londoner who has been having a secret love affair with his best friend for the past 60 years.

From BBC

Related Words

• adultery
• affair
• courtship
• dalliance
• devotion
• fling
• flirtation
• infidelity
• involvement
• liaison
• love
• passion
• relationship
• tryst