English Reference
Adjective

heartwarming

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈhɑɹtˌwɔɹmɪŋ/ UK /hˈɑːtwɔːmɪŋ/ heart·warm·ing

adj.causing feelings of happiness and pleasure because something is kind or good. You use this to describe stories or moments that make you feel warm inside.

adj.evoking a sympathetic sense of happiness, contentment, or emotional well-being. Often describes narratives or gestures that demonstrate human kindness.


SIMPLE

The movie has a heartwarming ending that made everyone smile.

CONTEXTUAL

Seeing the community come together to rebuild the local park was a truly heartwarming experience for the residents.

COMPLEX

The documentary provides a heartwarming look at the bond between the elderly residents and the shelter animals they care for daily.

Usage

Typically used to modify nouns like 'story', 'tale', 'moment', or 'ending'.

This heartwarming, layered, readable story will please 8+ horse lovers and Jacqueline Wilson fans.

The Guardian· 28 Aug 2026

A beautiful, heartwarming picture-book fable of repair, renewal and found family.

The Guardian· 24 Apr 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated