# feely

/ˈfiɫi/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/feely
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

quick to show feelings, often by touching, hugging or getting emotional. You use it for people who are very warm and physical.

For teachers: inclined to express emotion through physical touch or open sentimentality; emotionally demonstrative. Typically describes people or social interactions rather than objects.

## Examples

- She is a feely person who hugs everyone.
- Our new teacher is quite feely and pats students on the shoulder when they do well.
- Unlike his reserved brother, he remains stubbornly feely at family gatherings, embracing cousins and tearing up during speeches.

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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.