English Reference
adjective · noun

loving

adj. · n.
US /ˈɫəvɪŋ/ UK /lˈʌvɪŋ/ lov·ing

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    adj.showing a lot of love and care for someone.

    adj.feeling or showing great care, affection, or fondness toward others.

    Simple

    She sent a loving message to her parents to thank them for their help.

    In context

    The child grew up in a loving environment where emotional support was prioritized over material wealth.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    n.the act of showing or feeling love for someone.

    n.the action or state of feeling or expressing affection; often used as a gerund.

    Simple

    A bit of loving and kindness can change someone's whole day.

    In context

    The poet spent his final years exploring the complexities of loving and being loved in return.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced American EnglishFormal Law

    n.a famous US legal case that made it legal for people of different races to marry.

    n.a reference to the landmark 1967 U.S. Supreme Court case 'Loving v. Virginia', which invalidated laws prohibiting interracial marriage.

    Simple

    The Loving decision was a major victory for civil rights in America.

    In context

    Legal scholars often cite the Loving case as a foundational precedent for the right to marriage under the Fourteenth Amendment.

    Usage

    Usually capitalized as 'Loving' and often followed by 'v. Virginia'.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a specific historical and legal reference in the United States; it is not used as a general term for marriage elsewhere.

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Common
Updated