beloved or loved

a dear friend.

(used in the salutation of a letter as an expression of affection or respect or as a conventional greeting)

Dear Sir.

precious in one's regard; cherished

our dearest possessions.

heartfelt; earnest

one's dearest wish.

high-priced; expensive

The silk dress was too dear.

charging high prices

That shop is too dear for my budget.

excessive; high

a dear price to pay for one's independence.

Obsolete . difficult to get; scarce.

Obsolete . worthy; honorable.

a person who is good, kind, or generous

You're a dear to help me with the work.

a beloved one.

( sometimes initial capital letter ) an affectionate or familiar term of address (sometimes offensive when used to a stranger, subordinate, etc.)

dearly; fondly.

at a high price

That painting cost me dear.

(used as an exclamation of surprise, distress, etc.)

Oh dear, what a disappointment! Dear me! What's all that noise?