dear
/dɪr/
ADJECTIVE
1. Loved or deeply cherished
Loved, valued, or regarded with deep affection by someone.
1.1. Beloved person
Used to describe someone who is deeply loved, cherished, or emotionally important.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- Her dear friend had supported her through difficult times.
- He kept the photograph of his dear family beside his bed.
Related Words
1.2. Personally valued or important
Describes something that holds great emotional significance or is especially valued by a person.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- worthless
- valueless
- unimportant
- disregarded
Examples
- The old house remained dear to her despite its worn condition.
- He returned to the dear memories of his childhood.
Related Words
- sentimental
- meaningful
- significant
- irreplaceable
- valuable
1.3. Affectionate or heartfelt
Expressing warmth, tenderness, fondness, or sincere affection toward another person.
Synonyms
- affectionate
- loving
- fond
- tender
- warm
- endearing
Antonyms
- cold
- unfriendly
- hostile
- indifferent
Examples
- She sent him a dear message before his departure.
- He remembered her dear and affectionate manner.
Related Words
ADJECTIVE
2. Expensive or high in price
Costing a great deal of money compared with what is usual, expected, or affordable.
2.1. High-priced goods or services
Describes products, services, or purchases that cost more than average or are considered expensive.
Synonyms
- expensive
- costly
- pricey
- pricy
- high-priced
- premium
- overpriced
Antonyms
- cheap
- inexpensive
- low-priced
- affordable
- economical
Examples
- Fresh seafood is particularly dear during the winter months.
- The hotel was charming but rather dear for a weekend stay.
Related Words
- cost
- price
- luxury
- expenditure
- unaffordable
NOUN
3. Used as an affectionate form of address
A familiar or polite expression used when speaking or writing directly to someone, often to show affection, warmth, or respect.
3.1. Affectionate term for a loved one
A warm form of address used for someone who is loved, close, or emotionally important.
Synonyms
Examples
- Come here, my dear, and tell me what happened.
- Good night, dear.
Related Words
3.2. Polite or formal personal address
A courteous form of address used in letters, emails, or conversations when addressing someone respectfully or familiarly.
Synonyms
- dearest
- esteemed
- respected
Examples
- Dear Mr. Wilson, thank you for your letter.
- My dear colleagues, welcome to today's meeting.
Related Words
- greeting
- salutation
- correspondence
- recipient
- address
3.3. Affectionate or familiar reference to a person
A noun used to refer to someone affectionately, especially a friend, family member, or loved one.
Synonyms
Examples
- She is such a dear to everyone who knows her.
- The old gentleman was a dear who always helped his neighbors.
Related Words
VERB
4. To make someone beloved or cherished
To cause someone or something to become dear or emotionally valued by another person.
4.1. Make emotionally cherished
To inspire affection or cause someone to become more loved and valued.
Synonyms
Examples
- Her kindness helped dear her to the entire community.
Related Words
ADVERB
5. At a high price
At a great financial cost or for a high amount of money.
5.1. Costing a great deal
Used to indicate that something is bought, sold, or obtained at a high price.
Synonyms
- dearly
- expensively
- at a high price
Antonyms
- cheaply
- inexpensively
- economically
Examples
- The rare painting was bought dear at the auction.
Related Words
- cost
- expense
- price
- purchase
- expenditure