DEAR

High in price; expensive.

Example: "The dearer the jewel, the greater the love expressed."

Loved; lovable.

Loving, affectionate, heartfelt

Example: "Such dear embrace tenderly comforts even in this dear sorrow."

Precious to or greatly valued by someone.

Example: "The dearer the giver, the dearer the trinket he brings!"

A formal way to start (possibly after my) addressing somebody at the beginning of a letter, memo etc.

Example: "Dear sir/madam/miss, please notice our offices will be closed during the following bank holidays: [...]."

A formal way to start (often after my) addressing somebody one likes or regards kindly.

Example: "My dear friend, i feel better as soon as you come sit beside my sickbed!"

An ironic way to start (often after my) addressing an inferior.

Example: "My dear boy, if your grades don't pick up i won't bounce you on but over my knee!"

Noble.

Severe, or severely affected; sore.

Fierce.

Example: "The christens found the heathens dear, as the lion doth the bear."