dear

[dɪər]

dear Definition

• 1. loved or valued very much
• 2. highly priced
• 3. used at the beginning of a letter to address the recipient

Using dear: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dear" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  My dear friend, I hope this letter finds you well.

• Example

  The ring was very dear to her heart.

• Example

  The price of the car was too dear for me to afford.

• Example

  She is a dear colleague who always helps me.

dear Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for dear

• beloved
• precious
• treasured
• cherished
• expensive

Antonyms for dear

• cheap
• inexpensive
• worthless

Phrases with dear

• dear me

  an expression used to show surprise, shock, or annoyance

  Example

  Dear me, I forgot my keys again!

• for dear life

  with all one's strength or might, often in a situation of danger

  Example

  She held onto the rope for dear life as she climbed up the mountain.

• cost somebody dear

  to cause someone to suffer a great deal, especially financially

  Example

  The mistake cost the company dear, resulting in a huge loss of revenue.

Origins of dear

from Old English 'dēore', meaning 'precious, valuable, costly, loved, beloved'

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Summary: dear in Brief

The term 'dear' [dɪər] can mean something that is loved or valued very much, such as 'The ring was very dear to her heart,' or something that is highly priced, like 'The price of the car was too dear for me to afford.' It is also used at the beginning of a letter to address the recipient, as in 'My dear friend.' Phrases include 'dear me,' used to show surprise or annoyance, and 'for dear life,' meaning with all one's strength, often in a dangerous situation.