Dote
Verb
Definition: To be excessively or foolishly fond of someone or something.
Synonyms: Adore, Love, Idolize
Antonyms: Dislike, Hate, Detest
Examples:
- She doted on her grandchildren, buying them gifts every week.
- He dotes on his vintage car, spending hours polishing it.
Mnemonics:
- "Dote" sounds like "adore" which means to love, showing the excessiveness of fondness.
- Imagine someone dotting their i's with hearts, symbolizing their excessive love or fondness for the written word.
Etymology:
Origin:
Middle English 'doten', of unknown origin.
Historical Usage:The word 'dote' has been used since Middle English and was derived from an older verb meaning "to be silly or foolish."
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Dote on someone/something"
Explanation:To shower someone/something with excessive love, attention, or affection.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing 'dote' with 'dot'
Explanation:'Dote' refers to excessive affection, while 'dot' typically means a small, round mark or to mark with dots.