DEAR

I. adjective Etymology: Middle English dere, from Old English dēor Date: before 12th century severe , sore , II. adjective Etymology: Middle English dere, from Old English dēore; akin to Old High German tiuri distinguished, costly Date: before 12th century noble , highly valued ; precious , affectionate , fond , high or exorbitant in price ; expensive , heartfelt , ~ness noun III. adverb Date: before 12th century ~ly 3 , ~ly 1 , IV. noun Date: 13th century a loved one ; sweetheart , a lovable person, V. interjection Date: 1694 — used especially to express annoyance or dismay