The contraction cute first appears in the early 18th century, but only a century later does it begin to take on its distinctive modern meaning; Even after 1900 children were still being called cute as a. (especially of something or someone small or young) pleasant and attractive:
Attractive, especially in a dainty way; See examples of cute used in a sentence. Cute was originally a shortened form of acute in the sense "keenly perceptive or discerning, shrewd." in this sense cute is first recorded in a dictionary published in 1731.
Feb 21, 2026our reaction to cute attributes is understood as the way nature ensures mammals care for their young. Sep 11, 2025the term "cute" refers to something that is charming, attractive, or clever in appearance or behavior. Definition of cute adjective in oxford advanced american dictionary.
Attractive or charming in a sweet or heartwarming way; Look at that cute puppy! Your baby is so cute in that outfit!
This little teapot is awfully cute. Something or someone that is cute is very pretty or attractive, or is intended to appear pretty or attractive.
