affectueuse

Affectueuse is the feminine singular form of the French adjective affectueux, meaning "affectionate" or "loving." It describes a person, gesture, or manner characterized by warmth and tenderness. The masculine form is affectueux, and the feminine plural is affectueuses. The term is widely used in everyday French as well as in literature to convey gentleness and emotional warmth.

Originating in Old French as affectueux and ultimately from Latin affectuosus, from affectus (emotion, feeling), affectueux denotes a propensity to show affection. Like other French adjectives ending in -eux, affectueux has a feminine form ending in -euse and a plural form ending in -eux (masculine) or -euses (feminine).

In practice, affectueuse modifies feminine nouns: une mère affectueuse, une voix affectueuse, une attitude affectueuse. It is often used for people, but can also describe expressions, behavior, or atmospheres that convey tenderness. Common synonyms include tendre and chaleureux, while antonyms convey coldness or reserve (distant, froid).

See also: affectueux, affection, affectivité.