dote

To dote on someone means to love them very much, often in a way that seems a little too affectionate or indulgent. Imagine a grandmother showering her grandchild with gifts and constant attention: she dotes on that child. The word is most often used for people, and very often for pets too. It usually sounds warm and loving, but it can also suggest being too soft or too lenient. For example, a king might dote on his only heir and try to protect him from every hardship, perhaps too much.

The word "dote" describes a strong and tender affection expressed through excessive fondness or indulgence. It is more than just liking someone; it is about cherishing them with a love that can feel overwhelming to observers. Interestingly, the history of the word is tied to the concept of being foolish or senile (which is where we get the word "dotage"). Over the centuries, this meaning evolved into being "foolishly fond"—completely devoted to someone else's well-being and happiness.

You typically dote on those you feel protective toward, such as children, grandchildren, or beloved animals. For example: "My aunt dotes on her cat, spoiling it with gourmet food and handmade sweaters." This usage suggests warmth and sweetness, but it can also carry a hint of giving too much.

While the term is often used to describe beautiful, loving behavior, it can imply a failure to set boundaries. "She dotes on her son so much that she never says no to him" suggests an imbalance where affection is getting in the way of needed guidance. Today, the word is used mainly for this kind of affectionate attention rather than the old sense linked to mental decline. So, if you see someone looking at another person with a constant soft smile and giving them endless care, they almost certainly dote on that person.