Meaning & use
Dear
Last updated
Regarded with deep affection; precious or beloved.
See it in a sentence
She is a dear friend of mine from college.
Thank you for such a dear gift.
A note on using this word
Also used as a polite letter salutation ("Dear Sir") and, in British English, as an adjective meaning expensive.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
Another way to use it
2. adjective
Costly; expensive, especially in British usage.
Petrol has become quite dear this year.
3. noun
Used as an affectionate or polite form of address.
"Yes, dear," she replied with a smile.
Make it your own
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