Dear Meaning
Dear Definition & Usage
Used to express affection or warmth toward someone, often in letters, speech, or terms of endearment.
Examples
- "My dear friend, how have you been?"
- "She gave her dear husband a kiss before he left for work."
- "The dear little boy looked up at his grandmother with big eyes."
- "Thank you for your dear support through these difficult times."
- "He clutched the dear old family photo, a reminder of better days."
Used to describe something that is highly valued or treasured, either emotionally or in terms of cost.
Examples
- "That antique vase is a dear possession of mine."
- "This painting is dear to my heart because it was a gift from my grandmother."
- "The time we spent together was dear, and I’ll cherish it forever."
- "She spent her dear savings on the new car."
- "This old book is dear to me, as it was my grandfather’s."
Used to indicate something that is expensive, either financially or in terms of effort.
Examples
- "That was a dear mistake, costing the company thousands."
- "The ticket to the concert was dear, but it was worth every penny."
- "She paid a dear price for her education at that prestigious school."
- "It was a dear purchase, but the quality was unmatched."
- "The renovations came at a dear cost, but the results were stunning."
An affectionate term used to address someone, often in intimate or loving relationships.
Examples
- "Good morning, my dear, how are you today?"
- "I miss you, dear. When will you return?"
- "Come here, dear, I have something to show you."
- "She whispered, 'Don't worry, dear, everything will be okay.'"
- "He's always been a dear to me, loyal and kind."
Cultural Context
The word 'dear' originates from Old English 'deore' and has been used for centuries to indicate affection and value. It remains a commonly used term in both British and American English, especially in intimate contexts. Over time, it has broadened in meaning to include references to something cherished or valuable, as well as the expression of a high price.
The Dear Old Portrait
Story
The Dear Old Portrait
In a small town by the sea, there lived an elderly woman named Clara, who was known for her warmth and kindness. One afternoon, her niece Emily came to visit, bringing with her an old portrait of Clara's late husband, Thomas. The portrait, though faded with time, was dear to Clara's heart, as it was one of the last pieces of memory she had of him. As Emily placed the picture on the mantelpiece, Clara gazed at it, her eyes misting over. 'This old thing is still dear to me, Emily,' Clara said softly, her voice thick with emotion. 'It reminds me of the good days we had together.' Emily smiled, understanding the deep affection Clara had for the portrait. 'It must have cost a dear sum to have it painted, Aunt Clara. I remember you telling me how you had to save up for it.' Clara nodded, recalling the long years of sacrifice it had taken to afford such a treasured piece. 'Yes, it was dear in more ways than one. But every penny was worth it to capture his likeness.' The two women spent the afternoon reminiscing, and Clara shared stories of Thomas—his kindness, his love, and how much she had missed him over the years. As evening came, Emily said goodbye, but not before giving her aunt a gentle hug. 'You're a dear, Aunt Clara,' she whispered. 'And this portrait is too.' Clara watched her leave, feeling the warmth of affection in her heart, knowing that, although time had passed, the memories—and the portrait—would remain dear to her forever.
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