beloved

[ bih-luhv-id, -luhvd ]

adjective

1. greatly loved; dear to the heart.

   Synonyms: darling, sweet, precious

noun

1. a person who is greatly loved.

beloved

/ bɪˈlʌvɪd; -ˈlʌvd /

adjective

1. dearly loved

noun

1. a person who is dearly loved, such as a wife or husband

Other Words From

• prebe·loved adjective noun
• super·be·loved adjective
• unbe·loved adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of beloved¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English biloved “loved,” past participle of biloven “to like, love”; equivalent to be- + love + -ed ²

Example Sentences

“With heartfelt sorrow, we share the news of the passing of our beloved actor and friend,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times

But defying expectations is nearly impossible, especially when it comes to adapting a property as universally beloved as the long-running Broadway musical “Wicked.”

From Salon

Despite that legal history, Medicaid work requirements remain a beloved hobby horse of conservatives.

From Los Angeles Times

From classic Southern pecan pie to creative pumpkin blondies, Salon's food writers have shared their most beloved recipes to sweeten your holiday season.

From Salon

But she spurned his advances and kept her focus on her work and her beloved chimpanzees.

From BBC

Related Words

• admired
• cherished
• dear
• esteemed
• favorite
• hallowed
• loved
• popular
• prized
• respected
• revered
• treasured
• venerated
• well-liked