Master the word " DEAR " in English: definitions, translations, synonyms, pronunciations, examples, and grammar insights - all in one complete resource. 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." As a written form of address — such as " Dear Mr. So-and-so" — dear is generally a polite but impersonal standard greeting. Discover everything about the word " DEAR " in English: meanings , translations, synonyms, pronunciations, examples, and grammar insights - all in one comprehensive guide. DEAR definition : 1. used at the beginning of a letter, before the name of the person you are writing to: 2. A dear …. Learn more.