150+ words to describe someone you appreciate

Whether you're writing a birthday card, a recommendation, a toast, or just answering "how would you describe her?" — the right word does more than a paragraph of vague praise. Organized by what you're actually trying to say:

For their kindness

warm, generous, gentle, caring, compassionate, thoughtful, considerate, nurturing, welcoming, bighearted, tender, gracious, selfless, kind, soft-hearted, encouraging, supportive, patient, forgiving, openhearted

For their strength

resilient, steady, brave, determined, unshakable, tough, persistent, grounded, dependable, fearless, tenacious, calm, sturdy, unflappable, gritty, decisive, steadfast, solid, courageous, relentless

For their mind

sharp, curious, wise, insightful, clever, perceptive, thoughtful, imaginative, brilliant, analytical, quick, knowledgeable, inventive, discerning, savvy, original, observant, articulate, creative, visionary

For their spirit

joyful, playful, funny, spirited, radiant, lively, adventurous, magnetic, sunny, witty, vibrant, mischievous, enthusiastic, buoyant, irrepressible, cheerful, energetic, fun-loving, sparkling, effervescent

For their character

honest, loyal, humble, principled, fair, sincere, genuine, trustworthy, devoted, authentic, upright, direct, candid, faithful, honorable, modest, reliable, conscientious, decent, true

For how they make you feel

safe, seen, heard, understood, inspired, welcome, calm, capable, valued, braver, lighter, at-home, accepted, encouraged, loved

The words mean more when they're not just yours

One person's three words is a compliment. Twenty people's words, gathered together, is a portrait — and the repeats (the words three or four people chose independently) are the truest thing anyone will ever tell them about themselves.

— one friend's cloud, twelve people in