Fond of: Meaning and How to Use It

Meaning 1：liking something (Fond of)

Fond of 🔊

/fɒnd əv/

adj.

To like something or someone, often because it gives you a good, warm feeling.

Elderly person smiling while holding a cherished teacup fondly

liking something 🔊

➕

/ˈlaɪkɪŋ ˈsʌmθɪŋ/

adj.

To have a warm affection or liking for someone or something, often due to sentimental value or comfort.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Old English 'fonden' meaning foolish, later evolved to affectionate or doting.

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'Fond = Fun + fondle' — something you enjoy and like to touch or keep.

📖 Example

My grandma is fond of her old teapot; she uses it every morning even though it has a small crack. 🔊 My grandma is fond of her old teapot; she uses it every morning even though it has a small crack.

🔗 Collocations

become fond of – to develop a liking for

grow fond of – to gradually develop affection

fond of reading – enjoying the activity of reading

🔄 Synonyms

keen on (adj.) – having a strong interest in or liking for

attached to (adj.) – emotionally connected to

partial to (adj.) – having a preference for

🚫 Antonyms

averse to (adj.) – strongly disliking or opposing

indifferent to (adj.) – having no particular interest or feeling

🌱 Derivatives

fondness (n.) – a gentle liking or affection

fondly (adv.) – in a loving or affectionate manner

📖 Cultural Story

Originally meaning foolish or silly in Middle English, 'fond' shifted in the 16th century to describe tender affection, often used for cherished objects or habits.