iubit

Iubit is a Romanian term that functions as both an adjective and a noun, meaning “beloved” or “dear.” In masculine singular it appears as iubit, in feminine singular as iubită; the masculine plural is iubiți and the feminine plural is iubite. As a noun, iubit (masculine) or iubită (feminine) can denote a lover or sweetheart, often used with possessives such as iubitul meu (my beloved, male) or iubita mea (my beloved, female).

Etymology and form: iubit is derived from the verb a iubi, meaning “to love.” The word shares its core meaning with related Romance expressions for love, and its past participle form follows standard Romanian morphology: iubit (masc. sing.), iubită (fem. sing.), iubiți (masc. pl.), iubite (fem. pl.). The exact historical origin of a iubi is debated, with indications of both Romance and Slavic influences in the Romanian language.

Usage and nuance: iubit is commonly used in intimate or affectionate contexts, including personal letters, songs, and everyday speech. It can describe a person who is loved or serve as a direct address in endearment, though it is more informal and intimate than formal terms of affection. In practice, people often pair it with possessives (iubitul meu, iubita mea) to specify “my beloved” or “my sweetheart.”

See also: iubi, iubire, dragoste.