iubire

Iubire is a Romanian noun that denotes love, affection, or benevolence. It covers romantic love, parental or familial love, friendship, and a general sense of care toward others. In religious and ethical contexts, iubire is often used to describe a selfless, enduring form of love, including divine love or charity. In everyday language, it can appear in expressions such as iubiri necondiționată (unconditional love) or iubiri părintești (parental love). The term is commonly contrasted with dragoste, which in Romanian literature sometimes carries a stronger emphasis on passion or desire; iubire is typically associated with commitment, reciprocity, and moral dimensions.

Etymology and history: iubire is derived from the verb a iubi, to love. The precise origin is debated; some linguistic accounts point to Slavic influence or substrate contact in early Romanian, while others tie the form to a broader Romance vocabulary for love. The noun appears in medieval and modern Romanian texts and remains widely used today.

Usage and culture: In Romanian poetry, song, and religious discourse, iubire is a central concept expressing the ethical or spiritual arm of love, as well as private affection. It is also used in contemporary discourse to describe forms of care and solidarity among people, reflecting how love is understood as both personal feeling and social value. See also dragoste and iubire de sine (self-love).