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 …

CUTE definition: attractive, especially in a dainty way; pleasingly pretty. See examples of cute used in a sentence.

CUTE definition: 1. (especially of something or someone small or young) pleasant and attractive: 2. trying to be…. Learn more.

Jan 5, 2026 · Our reaction to cute attributes is understood as the way nature ensures mammals care for their young.

Word History: 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.

adj. attractive, esp. in a dainty way; pleasingly pretty: a cute child; a cute little apartment. affectedly or mincingly pretty or clever; precious: The child has acquired some intolerably cute …

attractive or charming in a sweet or heartwarming way; darling. Look at that cute puppy! Your baby is so cute in that outfit! This little teapot is awfully cute. (informal) good-looking; attractive. …

Cute definition: Obviously contrived to charm; precious.

Something or someone that is cute is very pretty or attractive, or is intended to appear pretty or attractive.

CUTE meaning: 1 : having a pleasing and usually youthful appearance; 2 : attractive in a sexual way