The meaning of dear is highly valued : In addition to emotional … How to use dear in a sentence. Dear sir or madam. 1596–1598 (date written), william shakespeare, “ … Used in direct address, especially in salutations: When you call someone “dear,” it signifies that they hold a significant place in your heart, elevating them beyond mere acquaintances to cherished individuals. Precious —often used in a salutation. (used as a conventional greeting or in the salutation of a letter as an expression of respect, friendship, etc. ): Loved or valued very much often + to; Youre a dear to help me with the work. Lost everything dear to them. · dear (comparative dearer or more dear, superlative dearest or most dear) the dearer the jewel, the greater the love expressed. Used in writing to address someone My dear friends. Loved and cherished: Used at the beginning of a letter to greet the person you are…. (sometimes initial capital letter), an affectionate or familiar term of address, as to a child or … You can also use expressions … My dearest friend. The burglars had taken our … If someone or something is dear to you, it means you hold them or it very close to your heart, as in my country is very dear to me or she is a dear friend. Loved or liked very much: Highly esteemed or regarded. You use dear in expressions such as my dear fellow , dear girl , or my dear richard when you are addressing someone whom you know and are fond of. Noun a person who is good, kind, or generous.