Cute Meaning and Definition
Cute
Pronunciation
/kjúːt/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Extremely attractive or charming, often in a childlike or innocent way.
Examples
- The kitten’s cute little nose made me laugh.
- Her smile is so cute when she’s embarrassed.
Synonyms
- Adorable
- Charming
- Lovely
Antonyms
- Unattractive
- Unpleasant
- Uninviting
Additional Information
Cuteness is often associated with youth, innocence, and vulnerability. It can be used to describe physical appearance, behavior, or personality traits. The concept of cuteness has been studied in various fields, including psychology, marketing, and anthropology.
In modern times, the term “cute” has become a popular internet meme, often used to describe animals, anime characters, or other forms of media that evoke a strong emotional response.
Etymology
The word “cute” originated in the 18th century as a shortened form of “acute,” meaning sharp or keen. Over time, its meaning shifted to describe something pleasing or attractive.
Usage Notes
Use “cute” to describe something that is charming or endearing, but avoid using it to describe something that is merely attractive or pretty. Be cautious when using “cute” to describe people, as it can come across as patronizing or condescending.
Cultural References
The concept of cuteness has been explored in various forms of media, including Japanese kawaii culture, American cartoon characters, and internet memes.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Cute as a button
- Cuteness overload
Related Words or Phrases
- Adorable
- Charming
- Lovely
Collocations
- Cute little
- So cute
- Cute as
Frequency of Use
The word “cute” is relatively common in modern language, especially in informal contexts such as social media or casual conversations.
Common Misspellings
- Cutie
- Cuty
- Kute