Honey is a term of endearment that dates back to the 14th century.ANDCentury.
Although affectionate names like "sugar" and "baby" are more recent, dating back to the late 19th centuryANDAt the end of the 20th century, lovers have long compared themselves to sticky sweetener.
And even though that nickname of love has been around for so long, we still sit around wondering how best to respond when someone calls us "darling."
Well, if the last five centuries of use of the term have taught us anything, it's that "honey" is used to indicate either extreme affection or extreme hostility.
Someone calling you darling means they really like you or they don't. It's usually easy to tell which is the case given the context in which it's said.
Here's a complete guide on how to respond to this popular pet name, with personalized responses to how it's understood and who says it.
25 Ways to Respond When Someone Calls You "Darling"
- Oh stop, you're the cutie.
- I could be your baby but I'm not as sweet as you☺
- Hello Baby.
- Oh, I like the way it sounds when you say that.
- Feel free to call me that anytime.
- Oh, I'll be your darling everyday
- thank you sugar
- I like it when you get affectionate.
- I've heard that honey goes well with cheese, so I think we're a perfect match.
- I bet you say that to every girl.
- I'm not your darling Try again.
- Sorry, I prefer you use my name when talking to me.
- That seems a little inappropriate for the workplace. Please call me by my name.
- I'm not really interested in using nicknames between us. Could you please call me by my name?
- Actually, this is [insert title and last name] for you.
- How can you call me that?
- I do not know you; please don't call me honey
- It works?
- Cool, sporty. Take it easy.
- Don't be mean to me.
- are you really doing this right now?
- look girl Here's the thing.
- I prefer [insert name], thank you.
- [Just look!]
- It's okay, honey.
How to Respond When a Lover Calls You Darling
While there are countless situations in which people call each other their boyfriend, the most common (and funniest) situation is when someone you like calls you their boyfriend.
So when someone you've talked to has a crush on calls you, it's understandable that you'll feel butterflies in your stomach and have to think twice about how to respond.
Here are some suggestions on how you can do this.
1. Oh, stop it, you're the cutie.
The use of honey as a term of endearment obviously stems from the fact that honey is sweet, viscous and delicious.
When we want someone to know we care, we naturally use words that evoke a pleasant experience.
If your crush calls you "sweetie" and you want to respond with something funny that still shows affection, why not say it's actually the sweetie?
Example:
A:You are sweet.
B:Oh stop, you're the cutie.
2. I could be your boyfriend, but I'm not as cute as you are.☺
This reaction of being called darling by someone you care about takes a similar approach to the previous one. The issue is essentially that you call your crush cute because she calls you "honey".
This is a great way to respond to someone calling you "darling" like a pet name.
Example:
A:Hey sweetie!
B:I may be your sweetheart, but I'm not as cute as you ☺
3. Hello dear.
One of the most common ways people use "darling" as a term of endearment is as part of a greeting. The same is often truewhen a guy calls you "baby"
So if your crush greets you by calling you "sweetheart" you can wave back and use a different pet name. "Babe" is as good as any, but you can also use "Dear" or "Honey".
Example:
A:Hey sweetie!
B:Hello Baby.
4. Oh, I like how it sounds when you say that.
When your crush calls you "honey" for the first time and you want to encourage him to keep calling you that, let him know you like the sound.
When someone addresses you for the first time by a pet name or nicknames, they're usually a little nervous to see how you react. If you can show them that you appreciate their openness and willingness to show affection, they'll likely use that term more in the future.
Example:
A:Hello my love
B:Oh, I like the way it sounds when you say that.
5. Feel free to call me that whenever you want.
Another way to indicate that you like a nickname, pet name, endearment, or pet name that someone uses to call you is to say that they can use that term at any time.
This is a fun and flirty way to show that you want to reciprocate, no matter how keen you are to use the term.
The psychology of the five love languagesshows that some people need more words of affirmation than others. If you are one of these people, encourage your crush to say nice and loving things to you so that you can meet their emotional needs.
Example:
A:So honey, can you tell me how your day was?
B:Yes I will do this. By the way, call me that whenever you want.
6. Oh, I'll be your darling everyday.
This is a good response when someone you care about comes up and asks if it's okay for them to call you "honey".
Regardless of the compliment your crush gives you, use a funny saying"What's to cook, handsome?"or something more serious likea guy who says he likes you, if you want them to keep saying it, you need to respond with something encouraging.
Making it clear to a guy that he should keep calling you darling or some term of endearment is the only way to make him feel safe about this.
Example:
A:Would you mind if I started calling you "honey"?
B:Oh, I'll be your darling everyday
7. Thank you dear.
When someone likes you, they usually start calling you cute in a slightly teasing way. You can continue the jokes (and cute insults) by referring to them with another similar term of endearment.
So if someone weirdly calls you darling, why not call them sweet in kind?
Eventually, the funny, teasing tone can wear off and you'll have a great relationship and the ability to feel comfortable calling your partner cute and endearing nicknames wrapped up in a personal story.
Example:
A:You look great dear.
B:Oh God, thank you dear.
8. I like it when you are affectionate.
While it's great to have a fun relationship, it's also great to be able to honestly express yourself with your crush.
So if someone calls you darling to show they like you, you can tell them that you like that caring side of them.
As always, encouraging their behavior will likely cause them to use pet names more often in the future.
Alternatively, you can just respond with "Aww" to show you're emotional. But people will fightto respond to "Aww".more than they want a direct and clear expression of affection.
Example:
A:Hello my love, I've been thinking about you all day.
B:I like it when you get affectionate.
9. I heard that honey goes well with cheese, so I think we are perfect for each other.
Good. Let's get this out of the way: calling someone "honey" is a little cheesy. In fact, most ways of expressing affection for someone are a little cheesy.
But that doesn't mean we should stay away from them, nor does it mean you should stay away from people who use trite phrases about you.
After all, there are far worse situations than sitting around thinkinghow to react to a pickup linefrom someone you like.
However, if you're someone who likes to call things what they are, you might respond to being called darling by teasing your crush with your cheesy speech.
Example:
A:You're looking good tonight, honey.
B:I've heard that honey goes well with cheese, so I think we're a perfect match.
10. I bet you call all girls that.
If you and your crush are just getting to know each other and aren't quite ready to use any of the bolder responses listed above, you can respond to being called "honey" by telling a joke.
This will deflect the compliment while you keep the conversation going. It also gives a lighthearted tone to the nature of your chats.
Once you crack a joke, your crush will know that you are the type of person who is ready for a laugh.
Saying "I bet you call all your girls that" shows that you're funny and tests your crush's interest in you. If they're genuinely interested in something serious, they'll make it clear to you that they don't say that to every girl.
While this might sound like a gendered response, it would be really funny if it were used by a man, whether you're talking to a man or a woman!
Example:
A:Hey my dear!
B:I bet you call all girls that.
How do you react when someone you're not interested in calls you "honey".
While there's almost nothing like being called sweet by someone you like, there's almost nothing worse than being called that by someone you don't like.
If someone you know casually and platonically is very comfortable using pet names to refer to you, respond as you would.Reply to "I love you" when you don't feel the same way.
11. I'm not your love. Try again.
When a person's behavior is clearly inappropriate, there's nothing wrong with being a little blunt. For example, if someone calls you "girlfriend" when you've shown absolutely no romantic interest in them, they're being arrogant and it's perfectly fine to put them in their shoes.
While you should never be rude, there's definitely room to make it clear that you're uncomfortable when he calls you "honey."
Example:
A:Hey honey, can you pass me my drink?
B:I'm not your darling Try again.
12. I'm sorry, I'd rather you use my name when talking to me.
Many of us prefer our name to any nickname. This is especially the case when the person giving us this nickname is someone we are not comfortable with and when the nickname has intimate implications.
Be as direct as possible to get the result you want. If you want someone to call you by your name, ask them to call you by your name (and no, not like that)!
Example:
A:Oh dear, you missed some great work drinks last weekend!
B:Sorry, I prefer you use my name when talking to me.
13. This seems a little inappropriate for the workplace. Please call me by my name.
The weirdest context of all to be called "honey" is at your workplace by someone you don't like.
Fortunately, there is a simple solution to this embarrassing situation.
In 2022, it's common knowledge that calling someone "honey" at work is no longer appropriate.
So if someone calls you darling, say it bluntly and let them know the term they're using isn't appropriate for the relationship or the environment they're in.
When a colleague makes inappropriate comments at work, you can also report it to Human Resources.
Example:
A:Honey, could you fax this to me?
B:That seems a little inappropriate for the workplace. Please call me by my name.
14. I'm really not interested in using pet names with each other. Could you please call me by my name?
Whatever situation you find yourself in, if someone calls you "honey" and it gives you the creeps, cut it out.
First, express that you disagree with the term they are using to refer to you. Then ask them to call you by name.
Example:
A:Hey my dear!
B:I'm not really interested in using nicknames between us. Could you please call me by my name?
How to Respond When a Stranger Calls You "Darling" Inappropriately
Many cultures have traditions of loving relationships with people they don't know. In many parts of England it is customary to call strange relatives "love" or "pet", not as an expression of loving love, but as a sign of caring for one's neighbor.
However, when it comes to nicknames like "Schatz", the line can get blurred.
It may be one thing for a friendly older salesperson to say, "Thanks, dear," when you wish him a good day, but quite another for an older man at a gas station to wink at a young man and say, "Dear, first day, dear.
If you're not sure if you're comfortable with something, consider the context. If you want to call the stranger you're talking about, feel free to do so.
People often use terms like "sweetheart" as part of their boos, which is never a good thing. Here are some ways to deal with a stranger calling you "honey" if you don't like it.
15. This is actually [insert title and last name] for you.
This is an assertive response to being called "honey" by someone you don't know.
Don't hesitate to tell others how to treat you. The clearer you are, the less time you have to feel down.
Example:
A:Well honey, what are you doing tonight?
B:This is really Dr. Robert is for you.
16. Why do you think you can call me that?
A bold way to berate a stranger for addressing you in a way you're not comfortable with is to ask him why he feels compelled to give you such an intimate nickname.
Example:
A:Well honey, how was your day?
B:How can you call me that?
17. I don't know you; please don't call me honey
You might be nervous responding to a crush who calls you "honey" because you care what they think of you, but there's no need to worry about how your words might sound to a stranger who calls you a weirdo. affection
Just say "I don't know you" to make it clear that you don't like the level of intimacy he's trying to claim. Then politely ask her not to call you "honey".
Example:
A:Hi dear, you look good!
B:I do not know you; please don't call me honey
18. Does it work?
A good way to snub people for their silliness is to ask if calling random people "honey" works for them.
I think most people don't like being approached and flirted with by slightly creepy strangers.
They'll get the gist and, let's face it, probably feel a little embarrassed.
Example:
A:Hey! Do you want to be my girlfriend?
B:It works?
How to react when someone calls you "honey" in a passive-aggressive way.
Sadly, that pure expression of affection got sucked into the drama.
You would hardly hear a mean comment on reality TV without it being followed by "Honey" or worse, "Honey".
While some still use honey in earnest, it gets a lot of air time when used as an insult.
See how you react when someone calls you "honey" in a passive-aggressive way.
19. Okay, sports. Take it easy.
If someone calls you "sweetheart" and it doesn't mean you're sweet and charming, but condescending to you, you can respond with an equally condescending nickname.
Calling someone a "sport" certainly indicates that you don't see them as someone worth having serious conversations with.
Example:
A:Oh please honey, you're not even worth my time.
B:Cool, sporty. Take it easy.
20. Don't be mean to me.
While it may be tempting to respond to passive-aggressive insults with more passive-aggressive insults, try to resist whenever possible.
Instead, call the person you are discussing your malicious behavior with.
Simply saying "don't be mean to me" sends the message that you don't have the patience for immaturity.
Example:
A:Nice top, dear.
B:Don't be mean to me.
21. Are you really doing this right now?
Another way to alert someone to immature behavior is to ask if they are really doing what you think they are doing.
The purpose of this question is to get them thinking about their disrespectful behavior and hopefully make them a little embarrassed for not being able to face the situation head on and address you like an adult.
Example:
A:you are so wrong baby
B:are you really doing this right now?
23. Look girl. Here's the thing.
If someone talks passive-aggressively to you, there's nothing wrong with standing up and enforcing the law.
Say exactly what you feel and don't hold back. Saying "Here's the thing" is a great way to start a total crush.
Example:
A:Oh dear, you're being so silly right now.
B:look girl Here's the thing.
24. I prefer [insert name], thank you.
If someone keeps calling you sweetheart and you don't feel like they come from a place of affection, just let them know that you would appreciate it if they called you by your first name.
Example:
A:Oh, you are so wrong darling.
B:I prefer Jane thanks
25. [Check it out!]
When someone really hits you below the belt, the best response is usually not to react. All you have to do is look at her with a disappointed expression and then let her go.
They will hear your message of disapproval loud and clear and hopefully feel ashamed of their immature behavior.
Example:
A:Ugh, that's so easy, honey.
B:[Sight is A]
It's okay, honey.
If you don't have time for a little exchange, write a line expressing your frustration and get out of the situation.
Using a passive-aggressive honey to respond to a passive-aggressive honey is perfectly reciprocal.
Example:
A:You are wrong, dear.
B:It's okay, honey.
Stefan
Hi, it's Steven. Dating and relationships have always fascinated me. On Dategosu you will find my top tips to make your next date a complete success!
FAQs
When someone calls you darling What does it mean? ›
1. a person very much loved: often used as a term of address. 2. a favourite.
Is calling someone darling flirting? ›In a relationship, "darling" is usually flattering. If you're hanging out with a great guy but aren't yet formally together, this nickname signifies that you might as well be a couple. He might have already pushed his thinking into girlfriend mode with a lot of presumable measures.
Is being called darling a compliment? ›If you describe someone as a darling, you are fond of them and think that they are nice. He's such a darling.
What happens when a guy calls you darling? ›When a man calls you by a pet name like babe, darling, or sweetheart, this is actually a good thing. That's because he considers this a good way to show you that he's interested in taking things to the next level. He wants to make things official and is trying to find a way to let you know how he feels.
How do you say darling without saying darling? ›- loved.
- beloved.
- cherished.
- precious.
- favorite.
- sweet.
- dear.
- special.
Of course you can. It's way less emasculating than calling him baby or sugar or sweet-pea, epithets commonly applied to grown men in the South. But if he doesn't like “darling”, you can put it on the no-fly list in future. Because the more you use an endearment he dislikes, the more it feels like you don't respect him.
Who calls people darling? ›'Darling' is often used by parents to their children more than anything, occasionally someone might call their partner it, but it's more likely to be either their own personal names or just the general 'love' or local bird, and some people only use it in private with someone else and otherwise not use it, 'darling' ...
What is darling in short form? ›DARL (abbreviation) definition and synonyms | Macmillan Dictionary.
Is darling condescending? ›Language which refers to people unknown to you in terms of endearment ('My dear', 'Darling', 'Love', and 'Dear' when used in speech) is patronising, condescending and promotes trivialisation. These forms should not be used unless the interlocutor has a close relationship with the speaker.
Is it normal to say darling? ›While the use of the word darling varies based on gender, age, region, and social class, the basic answer is yes.
What do guys like to be called? ›
Men like being complimented on their appearance, as well as their personality. Nicknames are a great way to express affection and familiarity. "Cutie" or Good-looking" are great nicknames when flirting, while names like "Babe" or "Honey" are better for committed relationships.
Is darling a romantic term? ›It's used as a term of affection by the upper classes – “I love you, darling”, down to the taxi cab driver on the street – “Where you goin', darlin'?” It's though that this term of endearment is really a reworking of dear, from the Old English deorling, becoming deyrling during the 1500s, and eventually darling.
What type of word is darling? ›Darling (proper noun)
What is the difference between dear and darling? ›Dear is used to address anyone in a friendly way, whereas darling is most often used to address a beloved one, someone who is very close to the heart.
What does darling mean boy or girl? ›Darling is a feminine name of Old English and Scottish roots. It translates to “beloved one” and serves as a common term of endearment for friends and family.
Do girls like to be called darling? ›Darling
We've included it because many girls like it but make sure you don't make her feel 85 years old! It's one of those terms of endearment that will split opinions.
Is 'darling' masculine or feminine? It's genderless, it's just a term of affection.
When was darling used? ›The origins of "darling" can be found in the very heart of the English language; its earliest known uses can be traced back to Old English writings from the 9th century.
Do Americans use darling? ›Darling: You may have heard this one said in movies, like in this clip from “The Incredibles,” or spoken by women who pronounce it “dahlin'.” Outside of movies, the term darling is still sometimes used by older people, usually by women to people they care about, or by men to their wives.
Can darling be used for boyfriend? ›Yes. If a girl refers to her boyfriend as “darling,” she is considered to have called him that. Darling isn't a gender specific terms. It usually is used to call someone who is dear to you.
Is Darling old fashioned? ›
Darling. This is about as old-school as a pet name can get. In fact, the term “darling” dates back to at least the 1590s, when it already meant "very dear, particularly beloved," according to the Online Etymology Dictionary. Using this word is a throwback to the '90s, and in this case that's the 1590s.
Where did the term darling come from? ›darling (n.)
Middle English dereling, from Old English deorling, dyrling "one who is much beloved, a favorite," double diminutive of deor "dear" (see dear (adj.)). The vowel shift from -e- to -a- (16c.) is usual for -er- followed by a consonant (see marsh).
If a woman calls you darling, she wants to be your husband. Darling.
What do guys find most attractive? ›Men prefer a woman who can stay calm and relaxed. Beauty is more than make-up and a fancy haircut. Men find women more attractive when they are neat and clean. Men find women who smell nice, who have clean hair and hydrated skin more attractive than a face perfectly covered in makeup.
What do guys like most in a relationship? ›Men want love as badly as women do. They just might not always be as obvious about it. But generally, they want the same thing: friendship, companionship, chemistry. So why is there so much confusion and miscommunication between the sexes?
What is the strongest way to say I love you? ›- I love you to the moon and back again.
- We fit together like puzzle pieces.
- You are the best thing that has ever happened to me.
- You complete me.
- I can't believe you're mine.
- You are a beautiful person inside and out.
- I am here for you… always.
- I'm yours.
If you're in a relationship, it's not unusual to give your partner nicknames, including but not limited to: bae, baby, my love, boo, sweetheart, etc.
Can darling be used for friends? ›Yes its pretty normal. I don't see how it can be wrong usage like someone here mentioned. Its just an affectionate word used to address someone you like. It means beloved but beloved can be anyone.
Can a woman says darling to a man? ›Darling. Again, an oldie but a goodie. Darling lets him know he is dearest to your heart. This may not be too unique, but it is still one of those perfectly cute things to call your boyfriend.
Who can we use darling for? ›Use the word darling for someone you love or care for deeply. Your sweet old grandmother probably calls you darling.
Can darling mean cute? ›
adjective. very dear; dearly loved: my darling child. favorite; cherished. Informal. charming; cute; lovable: What a darling baby!
Do girls like being called my darling? ›10. Darling. We've included it because many girls like it but make sure you don't make her feel 85 years old! It's one of those terms of endearment that will split opinions.