likable

or like·a·ble

[ lahy-kuh-buhl ]

adjective

1. readily or easily liked; pleasing:

   a likable young man.

   Synonyms: engaging, winsome, attractive, genial

likable

/ ˈlaɪkəbəl /

adjective

1. easy to like; pleasing

Derived Forms

• ˌlikaˈbility, noun

Other Words From

• lika·ble·ness lika·bili·ty likea·ble·ness likea·bili·ty noun
• un·lika·ble un·likea·ble adjective
• un·lika·ble·ness un·likea·ble·ness noun
• un·lika·bly un·likea·bly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of likable¹

First recorded in 1720–30; like ² + -able

Example Sentences

I found this kind of likable, yet abrasive guy who is still trying to help these people.

From Los Angeles Times

Rep. Karen Bass of Los Angeles, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, who was likable, energetic and a goal-achiever.

From Los Angeles Times

But they are so authentically likable, so genuinely charming, that my cynical heart melts faster than the polar ice caps in a year of record temperatures.

From Los Angeles Times

And so, how do we make this unlikeable character someone that we can empathize with, without being caught up in whether she's likable or not?

From Salon

“He is one hell of an effective communicator and an extraordinarily likable person,” Kamarck said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• amiable
• appealing
• attractive
• charismatic
• charming
• engaging
• enjoyable
• genial
• good-natured
• likeable
• sweet
• sympathetic
• winsome