adj.
- regarded with deep affection.
▸endearing; sweet.
▸used in the polite introduction to a letter.
- chiefly Brit. expensive.
n.
used as an affectionate form of address.
▸an endearing person.
adv.
chiefly Brit. at a high cost.
exclam.
used in expressions of surprise, dismay, or sympathy.
Derivative
Etymology
OE dēore, of Gmc origin.