lukewarm

adjective

luke·​warm ˈlük-ˈwȯrm 

1

: moderately warm : tepid

a lukewarm bath

lukewarm coffee

2

: lacking conviction : half-hearted

gave them only lukewarm support

a lukewarm review

lukewarm applause

lukewarmly adverb

lukewarmness noun

Synonyms

• heated
• hottish
• tepid
• toasty
• warm
• warmed
• warmish

Examples of lukewarm in a Sentence

I hate drinking lukewarm coffee.

Our plan got a lukewarm reception.

The producer was lukewarm about her script.

Recent Examples on the Web

Come morning, gently peel off your mask and rinse off any remaining pieces with lukewarm water. —Sarah Han, Allure, 23 Jan. 2025

When promotion cycles roll around, you could be overlooked due to your boss’s lukewarm endorsements or outright misinformation about your performance. —Mark Murphy, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025

Apply the exfoliant using small, circular motions for about 30 seconds, then rinse off with lukewarm water. —Laura Schober, Health, 23 Jan. 2025

Instead, opt for shorter, lukewarm soaks when bathing. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 22 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from luke lukewarm + warm; probably akin to Old High German lāo lukewarm — more at lee

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

lukewarm

adjective

luke·​warm ˈlü-ˈkwȯ(ə)rm 

1

: mildly warm : tepid

a lukewarm bath

2

: not enthusiastic : indifferent

our plan got a lukewarm reception

lukewarmly adverb

lukewarmness noun