beloved
Americanadjective
noun
adjective
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of beloved
First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English biloved “loved,” past participle of biloven “to like, love”; equivalent to be- + love + -ed 2
Compare meaning
How does beloved compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Explanation
Your beloved is someone you love. You can also talk about a beloved pet or possession. You probably have some things you really love: a bike, a skateboard, a book, a DVD, maybe a souvenir from a trip. Those are beloved possessions — you really like them a lot. People also talk about beloved family members, beloved pets, and beloved friends. This is a word for things and people you're crazy about. And if you're feeling really crazy on Valentine's Day, go ahead and tell your crush that she's your beloved.
Vocabulary lists containing beloved
Love Letter Words for Valentine's Day
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"Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare, Act II
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Michelle Obama's Speech at the 2016 DNC
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Ms. Wisse is the Iron Lady of the American Jewish right, a revered intellectual and beloved teacher.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026
Then North Beach’s beloved corner gem, Caffe Sapore, got its notice.
From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026
With 25 lots currently in its portfolio, four homes completed and two sold, Ocean Development offers a counterpoint to the narrative that investors will inevitably upend the character that made Altadena so beloved.
From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026
She described Radebe as "a one-of-a-kind talent who's been a beloved part of the Strictly family for eight years and will bring all his experience and knowledge to this new role".
From BBC • May 19, 2026
Then Mrs. Maroney would return to my aunt’s side for more stories about a beloved behind bars.
From "The Detective's Assistant" by Kate Hannigan
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
