valentine
English meaning: Valentine
Definition
An expression of affection, especially romantic affection, usually in the form of greeting card, gift, or message given the object of one's affection, especially on February 14th.
Example
“Such an extravagant valentine was unexpected.”
Another example: “He blushed when he realised the anonymous valentine was from his neighbour.”
Usage — When, Where & How
Most often refers to a card or message of love sent on Saint Valentine's Day (14 February), or affectionately to the person who is its object. Informal and warm in tone; chiefly used around that holiday.
Etymology & Origin
English — Origin & History
From Saint Valentine, a 3rd-century Christian martyr, the name itself from Latin 'valens' (strong, healthy); the romantic association dates from the late 14th century.
Synonyms
- sweetheart
- love note
- love token
Related Words
- proteus
- silvia
- libby
- browne
- ricky
- bloody
- riley
- holmes
- blake
- tanks
Common Collocations
- send a valentine
- secret valentine
- be my valentine
- valentine card
- handmade valentine
- a valentine's gift
Word Forms
valentine (n); valentines (pl)
Word Tools
Literary Heritage
“To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”
/To thine own self be true/
“Be honest with yourself — and as naturally as night follows day, you will be unable to be false to others.”
“I'm nobody! Who are you? Are you nobody, too?”
/I'm nobody! Who are you?/
“I am nobody — and that quiet anonymity is more honest than the noise of public fame.”
Images
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Language information
- Language
- English
- English
- Script
- Latin
- Family
- Indo-European
- Speakers
- 1.5B