dear

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA ^(key): /dɪə/, SAMPA: /dI@/
• (US) IPA ^(key): /dɪr/, SAMPA: /dIr/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

• Homophone: deer

Adjective

Positive dear

Comparative dearer

Superlative dearest

1. Dear is something that is precious or greatly valued to someone. They love the thing or the person.

   My large stamp collection is very dear to me.

   Dear George, Thank you for your letter of August 1.

2. Dear is something very expensive. It has a higher price; costs a lot of money.

   That diamond ring is too dear -- we can't buy it.

Noun

Singular dear

Plural dears

1. (countable) A kind, loving person.

   My cousin is my dear because she gives me flowers very often.

Related words

• dearest