WordGarden.iofond
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /fˈɒnd/
US
- /ˈfɑnd/
Meanings
Adjective
having or showing affection or liking
unrealistically hopeful or based on wishful belief
Noun
browned bits left in a pan after cooking, used for flavoring sauces
Beyond the definition
To be fond of someone or something means you feel warm affection for them. It is warmer than just liking but not as strong as love. You might feel this way about a cozy sweater, a silly song, or a close friend. It suggests gentle warmth and pleasure in being around them.
Think of it like this: you might like eating vegetables because they are good for you, but you are fond of chocolate cake because it brings you joy. Shakespeare often used "fond" to describe foolish or excessive affection, but today we usually use it to mean a warm, gentle liking. "She is very fond of her cat" means she enjoys its company and feels warmly toward it.
"Fond" describes a feeling of affection, warmth, and gentle pleasure toward someone or something. It's stronger than merely liking but doesn't necessarily reach the intensity of deep love. It implies a tender attachment built on positive experiences and enjoyment.
You might be fond of a particular place—"I am very fond of this little cafe"—suggesting it holds happy memories or provides comfort. You can also be fond of doing something, like "He is fond of gardening," meaning he enjoys the activity immensely. It often describes relationships with people: "She's quite fond of her neighbor," implying a friendly and affectionate connection.
Historically, "fond" could also mean foolish or silly, particularly when describing affection—as in "a fond hope." This usage stems from the idea that strong emotions can sometimes cloud judgment. However, today we primarily use "fond" to express warm liking and gentle affection.
So, if something brings a smile to your face and fills you with a sense of contentment, chances are you're quite fond of it! It's about cherishing simple pleasures and feeling warmly connected to the things that matter to you.
Examples
- 1
Affection
She’s very fond of her grandfather.
- 2
Everyday preference
I’m quite fond of this little cafe near the station.
- 3
Habitual enjoyment
He’s fond of telling the same story every Christmas.
- Patternfond of + -ing verb
likes doing it
- 4
Warm memories
I have fond memories of our summers by the sea.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Mild dislike
She wasn’t too fond of the idea at first.
- Phrasenot too fond of
does not like very much
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- fond of
- fond memories
- grow fond of
- fond farewell
Word family
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Forms and spellings
3 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- fondadjective
Forms
- fondestsuperlativeadjective
- fondercomparativeadjective