# fondly

/ˈfɑndɫi/ (US) · /fˈɒndli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fondly
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

in a way that shows you like or love someone or something very much. You use this when you are thinking about happy memories from the past.

For teachers: in a manner expressing affection, tenderness, or warm approval. Often modifies verbs related to memory, speech, or thought.

## Examples

- She smiled fondly at her old dog.
- He spoke fondly of his childhood summers spent at his grandparents' farm by the sea.
- Even decades after leaving the company, the retired engineers looked back fondly on the era of rapid innovation that defined their early careers.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies or sits at the end of the clause.

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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.