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Definition of heartening

heartening

/ˈhɑːr.tən.ɪŋ/
heart · en · ing
Adverb:hearteningly
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heartening Lexical Profile

heartening Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Inspiring cheerfulness, hope, or confidence; encouraging.

Example

"It was heartening to see the entire neighborhood come together to help rebuild the community garden."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for heartening
Antonyms
View all antonyms for heartening

• Rhymes for heartening

• Nearby Words

heartburn
hearted
hearten
heartening
hearteningly
heartfelt
hearth

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the verb 'hearten' (from 'heart' + the verbal suffix '-en'), dating to the 16th century, reflecting the historical association of the heart as the seat of courage and optimism.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Heartening. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/heartening
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