Meaning & use

cordial

adjective·Academic

Warm, friendly, and sincere in manner, especially in a formal or polite setting.

See it in a sentence

The two rival executives kept a cordial relationship despite years of business competition.

Their host greeted every guest with a cordial smile and a firm handshake.

A note on using this word

Cordial suggests polite warmth rather than deep affection, and often describes formal or professional relationships.

Words with a similar meaning

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Words with an opposite meaning

Another way to use it

2. noun

A sweet, non-alcoholic fruit-flavored drink, usually diluted with water, in British English.

We poured the children a glass of blackcurrant cordial with their lunch.

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