# heartwarming

/ˈhɑɹtˌwɔɹmɪŋ/ (US) · /hˈɑːtwɔːmɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/heartwarming
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

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.

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

## Examples

- The movie has a heartwarming ending that made everyone smile.
- Seeing the community come together to rebuild the local park was a truly heartwarming experience for the residents.
- The documentary provides a heartwarming look at the bond between the elderly residents and the shelter animals they care for daily.

## Usage notes

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

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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.