Definition of "dear" in 英语

adjective

1. (Ireland, UK) High in price; expensive.

   • The dearer the jewel, the greater the love expressed.
   • This water is sold for 50 cents per ton, which is not dear under the circumstances.

2. Loved; lovable.

3. Lovely; kind.

4. Loving, affectionate, heartfelt

   • Such dear embrace tenderly comforts even in this dear sorrow.

5. Precious to or greatly valued by someone.

   • The dearer the giver, the dearer the trinket he brings!

6. A formal way to start (possibly after my) addressing somebody at the beginning of a letter, memo etc.

   • Dear Sir/Madam/Miss, please notice our offices will be closed during the following bank holidays:[…].
   • Dearest Joseph/son:...

7. A formal way to start (often after my) addressing somebody one likes or regards kindly.

   • My dear friend, I feel better as soon as you come sit beside my sickbed!

8. An ironic way to start (often after my) addressing an inferior or someone one dislikes.

   • My dear man, you ought to think twice about who you're trying to blackmail.

9. (obsolete) Noble.

noun

1. A very kind, loving person.

   • My little cousin is such a dear, always drawing me pictures.

2. A beloved person.

3. An affectionate, familiar term of address, such as used between husband and wife.

   • Pass me the salt, would you dear?

4. An elderly person, especially a woman.

verb

1. (obsolete) To endear.

adverb

1. Dearly; at a high price.

interjection

1. Indicating surprise, pity, or disapproval.

   • Dear, dear! Whatever were they thinking?

adjective

1. Severe, or severely affected; sore.

2. (obsolete) Fierce.

   • The Christens found the heathens dear, as the lion doth the bear.