Langimage
English

lukewarm

|luke/warm|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈluːkˌwɔrm/

🇬🇧

/ˈluːkˌwɔːm/

moderately warm; lacking enthusiasm

Etymology
Etymology Information

'lukewarm' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'lukewarme,' where 'luke' meant 'tepid' and 'warm' meant 'warm.'

Historical Evolution

'lukewarme' transformed into the modern English word 'lukewarm.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'tepid or moderately warm,' but over time it evolved to also mean 'lacking enthusiasm.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

moderately warm; not hot or cold.

The coffee was lukewarm by the time I drank it.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

lacking enthusiasm or conviction.

Her response to the proposal was lukewarm.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39