adjective

cute

Attractive in a charming or endearing way.

The puppy looks cute with one ear flopped over.

Etymology

Cute is a shortening of acute. It first emphasized cleverness or sharpness, then shifted toward the charm and attractiveness now associated with the adjective.

More examples

  • Those cute little boots are perfect for the baby.
  • He has a cute smile that makes me blush.
  • We stop at a cute cafe on the corner.

Forms

cute · cuter · cutest

cuteness noun — The quality of being charmingly attractive.

cutely adverb — In a charming or endearing way.

Similar words

adorable
Suggests stronger affection or delight than cute usually does.
charming
Emphasizes an appealing manner or character rather than appearance alone.
pretty
Emphasizes pleasing looks without necessarily suggesting warmth or endearment.