Phrase guide

near and dear

prep_phrase · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

prep_phrase

Meaning 1

Loved or cared about greatly.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • This bracelet is a gift from my spouse, who I hold near and dear.
  • Writing has been near and dear to me for a long time.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.