fondness

[ fond-nis ]

noun

1. the state or quality of being fond.
2. tenderness or affection.
3. doting affection.
4. a liking or weakness for something:

   He has a fondness for sweets.

   Synonyms: preference, partiality, predilection

5. Archaic. complacent credulity; foolishness.

Other Words From

• self-fondness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of fondness¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English; fond ¹, -ness

Example Sentences

Perhaps surprisingly he speaks of Marks with fondness.

From BBC

Generally though I found a fondness for the outgoing President who is a familiar figure in the city.

From BBC

"I hope one of the reasons I was appointed to the role is that I am very familiar with Northern Ireland, have a great fondness for it," he added.

From BBC

Last time we spoke, Shears recalled with fondness that one critic had panned their debut by calling it "a confusing board game of an album".

From BBC

She gained a deep fondness for Manhattan, including its walkability and ample green space in Central Park.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• affection
• devotion
• penchant
• predilection
• preference
• soft spot
• tenderness