loving

1 of 2

adjective

lov·​ing ˈlə-viŋ How to pronounce loving (audio)
Synonyms of lovingnext
1
: affectionate
2
: painstaking
lovingly
ˈlə-viŋ-lē How to pronounce loving (audio)
adverb
lovingness noun

loving

2 of 2

present participle of love entry 2

Synonyms of loving

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Adjective

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Examples of loving in a Sentence

Adjective The old house has undergone a loving restoration. they were a loving family, supporting each other when times were bad
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
These folks include my sister, two brothers and a beloved SIL, all who’ve been a loving part of our 41-year-old’s life since birth. — R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 1 Sep. 2026 Sometimes change is possible and can be requested directly upon the foundation of a loving connection. — David H. Rosmarin, Time, 29 Aug. 2026 James, though loving and well-intentioned, can’t help but show his skepticism, repeatedly (and blithely unaware of his condescension) asking if his wife remembered to take her meds today. — Greg Evans, Deadline, 29 Aug. 2026 But the role of the group chat is, just as often, to subject one another to a loving humbling. — Hanif Abdurraqib, New Yorker, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loving

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of loving was before the 12th century

Phrases Containing loving

Rhymes for loving

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Browse Nearby Words

lovey-dovey
loving
loving cup
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Cite this Entry

“Loving.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loving. Accessed 3 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

loving

adjective
lov·​ing
ˈləv-iŋ
: feeling or showing love : affectionate
loving care
a loving glance
lovingly adverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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