near and dear
idiom
: very close in relationship
friends who are near and dear
my nearest and dearest friend
Examples of near and dear in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The 2026 Acura Integra’s Exterior and Interior The entry-level Acura returned for the 2023 model year, and, at first, experienced some rejection by those who hold the badge near and dear to their hearts.
—
Peter Nelson, Forbes.com, 19 Jan. 2026
The locale is also especially near and dear to Julian Silvera’s heart, with each dish bringing one of chef’s memories or experiences to life on the plate.
—Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 11 Jan. 2026
The art form is near and dear to Bradley, who has the physical endurance of ballet within her genes.
—Malik Peay, Essence, 4 Dec. 2025
The concert will once again be raising money for Rady Children’s Hospital, a cause Vaus holds near and dear to his heart.
—Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for near and dear
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Peter Nelson, Forbes.com, 19 Jan. 2026
The locale is also especially near and dear to Julian Silvera’s heart, with each dish bringing one of chef’s memories or experiences to life on the plate.
—Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 11 Jan. 2026
The art form is near and dear to Bradley, who has the physical endurance of ballet within her genes.
—Malik Peay, Essence, 4 Dec. 2025
The concert will once again be raising money for Rady Children’s Hospital, a cause Vaus holds near and dear to his heart.
—Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for near and dear
Cite this Entry
“Near and dear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/near%20and%20dear. Accessed 28 Jan. 2026.
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