adjective

1. much loved; beloved
2. much valued; highly thought of; esteemed: used with a title or name as a polite form of address, as in writing letters Dear Sir
3. high-priced; costly
4. earnest; fervent our dearest wish

Etymology: ME dere < OE deore, precious, costly, beloved, akin to Du duur, Ger teuer

adverb

1. with deep affection
2. at a high cost

noun

1. a loved person; darling: often a term of affectionate address
2. an endearing person; one who arouses gentle affection, tenderness, or gratitude

interjection