Pronunciation: /dɪr/
noun used as a term of endearment for someone close or loved
A1 My dear friend is coming to visit me next week.
A2 She wrote a letter to her dear grandmother.
B1 The dear old man lived alone in a small cottage.
B2 The dear departed will always hold a special place in our hearts.
C1 The dearth of resources in the region is a major concern for the government.
C2 The dearth of quality education is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed.
adjective used to describe someone or something loved or valued
A1 My dear friend helps me with my homework.
A2 I received a dear letter from my grandmother.
B1 She is a dear colleague who always offers support.
B2 The dear old couple lived in a cozy cottage by the lake.
C1 The dear memories of our childhood will always be cherished.
C2 The dear leader of the organization was respected by all members.
formal Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to inform you of the recent changes to our company policy.
informal Hey dear, do you want to grab a coffee sometime?
slang Yo dear, what's up with you these days?
figurative My dear, you are the sunshine in my life.
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