Dear
dɪər
Definitions
3 meaningsBeloved; regarded with affection.
dɪər
Beloved or cherished
My dear sister, I miss you terribly.
💡 Simply: It's like saying you really, really like someone or something. Like when you say 'My dear friend' or talk about something you treasure.
👶 For kids: When you love someone very much, like your mommy or daddy.
More Examples
She is a dear friend.
He kept his mother's dear photograph on his desk.
How It's Used
"My dear friend, it was lovely to hear from you."
"Come here, my dear."
"He held his dear wife's hand tightly."
High in price; costly.
dɪər
Expensive
Fuel prices are becoming dear.
💡 Simply: It means something costs a lot of money. Like when you say something is too expensive to buy.
👶 For kids: When something costs a lot of money.
More Examples
That watch is far too dear for me.
The restaurant was good, but the food was rather dear.
How It's Used
"The price of gold is quite dear these days."
"The designer dress was far too dear for my budget."
A term of affection or endearment, used in addressing someone.
dɪər
Used as a term of endearment
Here you are, dear, your coffee.
💡 Simply: A sweet way to call someone you care about, like a special nickname.
👶 For kids: A loving word you use for someone you like.
More Examples
Yes, dear, whatever you want.
Don't worry, dear, everything will be alright.
How It's Used
"Thank you, dear."
Idioms & expressions
My dear
An expression of affection, surprise, or mild rebuke.
"Oh, my dear, that's wonderful news!"
Dear me
An expression of surprise, concern, or mild dismay.
"Dear me, what a mess!"
From Old English *dēore* ('precious, valued, costly'), from Proto-Germanic *deuzą* ('dear, beloved'). Related to German *teuer* and Dutch *duur*.
In older texts, 'dear' could also be used to express sadness or sorrow, though this usage is now uncommon.
Memory tip
Think of someone you love, they are dear to you.
Word Origin
"precious, beloved, costly"