beloved

adjective

be·​loved bi-ˈləvd  -ˈlə-vəd 

bē-

: dearly loved : dear to the heart

our beloved grandmother

a beloved public figure

beloved noun

Synonyms of beloved

• loved
• cherished
• favorite
• precious
• darling

Examples of beloved in a Sentence

He is a beloved public figure.

an actor beloved by millions of fans

one of the city's most beloved buildings

Recent Examples on the Web

The story involves the troubles of a beloved brother, and the longtime effort to reckon with his pain and that of his family. —Richard Brody, New Yorker, 12 Apr. 2026

Leia Name your little princess after the beloved General Leia Organa, Luke Skywalker’s twin sister who is gifted in the Force too. —Kara Nesvig, Parents, 11 Apr. 2026

Gary Gerould has endeared himself to generations of fans as one of the most beloved figures in franchise history over 41 seasons as the radio voice of the Sacramento Kings. —Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 11 Apr. 2026

The country’s beloved nature getaways saw a collective 323 million recreational visits in 2025. —Stephanie Vermillion, Travel + Leisure, 11 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from past participle of beloven to love, from be- + loven to love

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing beloved

• well-beloved

Rhymes for beloved

• gloved
• loved
• shoved
• unloved

Kids Definition

beloved

adjective

be·​loved bi-ˈləv(-ə)d 

: dearly loved

beloved noun