Main Entry: ²dear

Function: 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 dearest prayers>

— dear·ness noun