DEAR Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
The meaning of DEAR is highly valued : precious —often used in a salutation. How to use dear in a sentence.
Searching…
The meaning of DEAR is highly valued : precious —often used in a salutation. How to use dear in a sentence.
DEAR definition: 1. loved or liked very much: 2. used at the beginning of a letter to greet the person you are…. Learn more.
Feb 24, 2026 · dear (comparative dearer or more dear, superlative dearest or most dear) (Ireland, UK) High in price; expensive. quotations
1. A person who is greatly loved. Often used as a form of address. 2. An endearing, lovable, or kind person: What a dear she is!
Feb 26, 2025 · Master the word "DEAR" in English: definitions, translations, synonyms, pronunciations, examples, and grammar insights - all in one complete resource.
used in conventional forms of address preceding a title or name, as in Dear Sir or my dear Mr Smith (postpositive) followed by to: important; close: a wish dear to her heart
Held in tender affection or esteem; loved; beloved: as, a dear child; a dear friend [In this sense much used in the introductory address of letters between persons on terms of affection or of polite intercourse: as, d...
Dear definition: Highly esteemed or regarded. Used in direct address, especially in salutations.
(used as an exclamation of surprise, distress, etc.). Oh dear, what a disappointment! Dear me! What's all that noise?
If someone or something is dear to you, it means you hold them or it very close to your heart, as in "My country is very dear to me" or "She is a dear friend."