Definition of "darling" in English

noun

1. Often used as an affectionate term of address: a person who is very dear to one.

   • Pass the wine, would you, darling?

2. A person who is kind, sweet, etc., and thus lovable; a pet, a sweetheart; also, an animal or thing which is cute and lovable.

   • The girl next door picks up all my shopping for me. She is such a darling.

3. A favourite.

adjective

1. Very dear; beloved, cherished, favourite.

   • She is my darling wife of twenty-two years.

2. (affected) Very cute or lovable; adorable, charming, sweet.

   • Well, isn’t that a darling little outfit she has on?

verb

1. (transitive, informal) To call (someone) "darling" (noun noun, sense 1).