well-beloved

American  

[wel-bi-luhv-id, -luhvd] / ˈwɛl bɪˈlʌv ɪd, -ˈlʌvd /

adjective

1. loved deeply and sincerely.

   my well-beloved fiancé.

2. highly respected and honored.

   our well-beloved speaker.

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noun

1. a person who is loved dearly.

   in respect for the well-beloved.

Etymology

Origin of well-beloved

1350–1400; Middle English wel biloved

Example Sentences

She reflected on the well-beloved film in a 2017 interview with The Times.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2024

Marvel's growing roster of well-beloved, fearsome, female characters of color is undeniably exciting.

From Salon • Sep. 6, 2021

Helmet stampers wore trench helmets, which they had made and which would some day, perhaps, protect the lives of their own well-beloved.

From Slate • Jun. 20, 2020

Sometime in February 1477, Margery Brews wrote to her “right well-beloved valentine,” John Paston, informing him that her father still refused to increase her dowry.

From Washington Post • Feb. 11, 2020

Beth was soon able to lie on the study sofa all day, amusing herself with the well-beloved cats at first, and in time with doll’s sewing, which had fallen sadly behind-hand.

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott