# endearing

/ɛnˈdiɹɪŋ/ (US) · /ɛndˈiəɹɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/endearing
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

describing someone or something that is very easy to like. It is often used for small habits or qualities that make a person seem sweet or charming.

For teachers: inspiring affection or warm approval through a charming or sweet quality. Often used to describe idiosyncratic habits or personality traits that evoke a protective or fond response.

## Examples

- He has an endearing habit of humming while he works.
- Despite her occasional clumsiness, her colleagues found her honesty and enthusiasm quite endearing.
- The protagonist's vulnerability and awkward attempts at social grace proved endearing to the audience, making his eventual success feel deeply earned.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun or predicatively after a linking verb like 'be', 'seem', or 'find'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.