companionable

[kuhm-pan-yuh-nuh-buhl] / kəmˈpæn yə nə bəl /

ADJECTIVE

friendly

Synonyms

WEAK

affable amicable buddy-buddy clubby complacent congenial conversable convivial cordial cozy cozy with familiar genial good-natured gregarious intimate mellow neighborly outgoing pally palsy sociable social tight tight with

Antonyms

WEAK

antagonistic foreign opposing unfriendly

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for companionable?

Describing someone as companionable means that they are pleasant to be with or be around. It often means that they are (or at least have the makings of) a good companion or friend. Words that suggest a similar sense of friendliness and comfort include congenial and affable. The word simpatico can mean the same thing. A person who is described as companionable is often compatible with their companion or friend. The word companionable isn’t only applied to people. The phrase companionable silence, for example, refers to the kind of silence that occurs between people who are comfortable enough with each other that they can be in each other’s presence without always needing to speak.

What is the opposite (antonym) of companionable?

Words that suggest the opposite of companionable include unfriendly and antagonistic. These suggest that a person is the opposite of what makes a good companion—that they are cold or perhaps even hostile. The opposite of a companionable silence is an awkward silence, which suggests a lack of closeness or ease.

How do you use companionable in a sentence?

Companionable isn’t used all that often, perhaps because it sounds a bit too formal to describe a person you’re familiar or comfortable with. Here are some examples of companionable in a sentence:

I did all I could to be friendly and companionable, but no one seemed to have any interest in talking with me.
We spent the plane ride in companionable silence, occasionally pointing out passages in the books we were reading.
I had a most companionable conversation with the new principal—I think we’ll get on quite well.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The silences are starting to feel less companionable and more awkward, and I’m worried this is going to start straining our relationship.

From Washington Post

As he got in, I reached for my headphones and prepared to spend the journey in companionable silence.

From New York Times

In the slanting sunlight, unhurried and companionable, the two picked their way through the undergrowth, a vision of the rural idyll.

From New York Times

My home is comfortable for me, but I don’t think most people would be comfortable here — I enjoy some companionable clutter and am not an especially deep cleaner.

From Washington Post

Hudson’s companionable presence, and some of his delightful prose, enrich this book.

From Washington Post

companionable

Frequently Asked Questions

Example Sentences

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