I. ˈdir adjective
Etymology: Middle English dere, from Old English dēor
Date: before 12th century
: severe , sore
in our dear peril — Shakespeare
II. adjective
Etymology: Middle English dere, from Old English dēore; akin to Old High German tiuri distinguished, costly
Date: before 12th century
1. obsolete : noble
2. : highly valued : precious
a dear friend
— often used in a salutation
dear Sir
3. : affectionate , fond
4. : high or exorbitant in price : expensive
eggs are very dear just now
5. : heartfelt
our dear est prayers
• dear·ness noun
III. adverb
Date: before 12th century
1. : dearly 3
the effort cost them dear
2. : dearly 1
so dear I loved the man — Shakespeare
IV. noun
Date: 13th century
1. : a loved one : sweetheart
2. : a lovable person
V. interjection
Date: 1694
— used especially to express annoyance or dismay