amiable

Definition

Friendly; kind; sweet; gracious

Etymology

From Middle English amyable, from Old French amiable, from Late Latin amīcābilis (“friendly”), from Latin amīcus (“friend”), from amō (“love”, verb). The meaning has been influenced by French amiable and Latin amābilis (“loveable”) (whence English aimable and amable). Doublet of amicable. Compare with amorous, amability.

Example Sentences

• "an amiable temper"
• "amiable ideas"
• "The sums I have lent him! indeed—I have been exceedingly to blame—it was an amiable weakness!"

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