Sweet

Definition

Sweet refers to having a pleasant taste characteristic of sugar or honey, being delightful or kind, or denoting something agreeable or charming.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /swiːt/
• Respelling: SWEET

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /swiːt/
• Respelling: SWEET

Etymology

The word "sweet" originates from the Old English "swēte," which derives from Proto-Germanic "swōtijaz" and Proto-Indo-European "swād-" (pleasant, sweet). It has been in use since before the 12th century, maintaining its primary connotation of pleasantness and agreeable taste.

Derivatives

• Sweetly (adverb)
• Sweetness (noun)
• Sweetheart (noun)
• Sweeten (verb)
• Sweeter (adjective, comparative)

Synonyms

• Sugary
• Charming
• Lovely

Antonyms

• Bitter
• Sour
• Unpleasant

Usage

The word "sweet" is commonly used to describe flavors, personalities, or things that are delightful. For example, "The cake was incredibly sweet" or "She has such a sweet smile."

Related Terms

• Kind: Having a gentle and caring nature.
• Delightful: Extremely pleasing or charming.
• Honeyed: Something pleasingly sweet, often metaphorical.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Having a taste similar to sugar or honey: Refers to food or beverages with a high level of sweetness.
  • Example: "The tea is too sweet for my liking."
• Pleasing or delightful: Describes something that brings joy or satisfaction.
  • Example: "The melody of the song was sweet and calming."
• Kind or endearing in character: Refers to someone who is gentle, pleasant, or thoughtful.
  • Example: "He is such a sweet person to everyone he meets."

Noun

• A sweet-tasting food item, especially a dessert or confectionery: Used to refer to candies or desserts.
  • Example: "She offered me a sweet after dinner."
• Something pleasing or delightful: Denotes something enjoyable or charming, often metaphorically.
  • Example: "The baby’s laughter was a sweet to everyone in the room."