The love that a person feels for others is a complex topic, and the definition of love varies by individual. Some people use the word to describe a specific physical feeling, while others use it more broadly to refer to a relationship with an emotional component. Regardless of the precise meaning, most people agree that love involves caring about someone else and wanting them to be happy.
In the context of romantic love, this typically means valuing their opinions and feelings as highly as your own. Some people also prefer to show their loved ones how much they care through acts of service. For example, they may bring you medicine when you’re sick or cook dinner for you. These acts are often accompanied by verbal expressions of affection such as “I love you.”
Other people find that the best way to express their feelings is through time spent together. This type of love is often characterized by longing for an emotional union with their partner, seeking ways to get closer, and daydreaming about a future together. In addition, the hormone and neurotransmitter oxytocin tends to spike in the brain when we fall in love.
Other people might define the meaning of love more broadly by referring to the relationships they have with their family members, friends, and even pets. This type of love often includes mutual respect, vulnerability, and forgiveness. It can also include sacrifice, such as when a parent gives up an organ to keep their child alive.