Skip to main content
dilection

dilection

1 9.9
A strong liking for a person or thing
  • noun
  • /ˌdaɪˈlɛkʃən/
  • Archaic
: dilección

Examples

  • The poet wrote of his dilection for the countryside in many verses.

  • Her dilection for classical music was evident in her collection of rare records.

  • In old letters, he expressed a deep dilection for his homeland.

  • Her dilection for classical music is well-known.

  • He expressed his dilection for fine art.

  • In medieval literature, the term dilection often signifies a deep and abiding affection for one's beloved.

  • The poet expressed his dilection for nature through vivid imagery and heartfelt verses.

  • Her dilection for classical music was evident in her extensive vinyl collection.

Synonyms

devotion
vsdilection
43 3.2

Strong love and loyalty to someone or something

is an archaic term for the same love or strong preference
adoration
vsdilection
20 3.4

A strong feeling of love and respect for someone or something

is an older term meaning love or a strong personal preference
devotedness
vsdilection
1 7.2

A strong, loving loyalty and care for someone or something

is an old-fashioned term for the same love or strong preference
enamoredness
vsdilection
  • US
9.6

A strong feeling of love or great liking for people and things such as art and music

is an archaic term for love or strong preference in older language

Antonyms

dislike
  • Texting
50 1.0

A feeling of not liking someone or something

38 6.5

A strong dislike of something or someone

How Loving

devotion
43 3.2
adoration
20 3.4
dilection
  • Archaic
1 9.9
love
∞ 1.0
affection
276 1.4
fondness
39 2.8
liking
68 1.0

Surface Forms

dilection singular
dilections plural

Etymology

Dilection comes from the Latin root diligere, which means 'to love' or 'to value'. You can see the same root in diligent, and that connection helps explain why dilection means a special love or strong liking for someone or something.