Edward Young

Some for renown, on scraps of learning dote, And think they grow immortal as they quote.

English Poet

Use 'dote' to describe a level of affection that is visibly excessive and sometimes overwhelming to others.

'Dote' generally implies that the affection is positive and heartfelt, even if it's too much.

When someone dotes, it often means they focus their love or affection toward a specific person or thing.

'Dote' suggests a deep level of attachment that is not casual or fleeting.

Common subjects of doting include children, pets, and romantic partners.

Doting is not just a one-time action, it's a habitual behavior demonstrating constant affection.

'Dote' can imply that the person providing the affection may overindulge or spoil the recipient.

The use of 'dote' to mean feeble-minded is old-fashioned and not common in modern language.

Context can help distinguish between 'dote' meaning excessive affection and being feeble-minded.

Use this definition with sensitivity, since it can be seen as derogatory when referring to the elderly.

 in an evolutionary flip-flop the virally altered vole returned to dote on his