adj. 1 beloved, loved, adored, darling, precious, cherished, prized, valued, treasured, favoured, favourite, pet, esteemed, admired, venerated, honoured He was my nearest and dearest friend 2 expensive, costly, high-priced, highly priced, Colloq pricey Tomatoes are much too dear at this time of the year
n. 3 darling, sweetheart, beloved, love, true-love, sweet, honey, precious, pet, favourite, treasure, precious, Colloq sweetie, sweetie-pie, Slang baby My dear, I hope we'll be together always
adv. 4 dearly; at great cost or expense, at a high or excessive price That little error will cost you dear, my friend