noun
Often used as an affectionate term of address: a person who is very dear to one.
A person who is kind, sweet, etc., and thus lovable; a pet, a sweetheart; also, an animal or thing which is cute and lovable.
A favourite.
adjective
Very dear; beloved, cherished, favourite.
(affected) Very cute or lovable; adorable, charming, sweet.
verb
(transitive, informal) To call (someone) "darling" (noun noun, sense 1).