# luv

CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/luv
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a casual way to write 'love' or a friendly name for someone. You might see it in a text message or hear someone in the UK use it to be nice to a stranger.

For teachers: an eye-dialect spelling of 'love' used to represent a casual or regional pronunciation. Often functions as a term of endearment or a familiar form of address in informal British English.

## Examples

- Thanks for the help, luv.
- The shopkeeper smiled and said, 'That will be five pounds, luv,' as she handed over the groceries.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I luv you in a formal letter" but "I love you in a formal letter" — This spelling is highly informal and should be avoided in professional or academic contexts.

## Usage notes

- Primarily used in informal writing or as a vocative term of address; common in British English dialects.

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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.