beloved
UK: bɪˈlʌvɪd | US: bɪˈlʌvɪd
adj. dearly loved
n. a person who is dearly loved
The word "beloved" originates from Middle English, combining the intensive prefix "be-" (emphasizing the root) with "love" (from Old English "lufu," meaning deep affection) and the suffix "-ed" (forming past participles or adjectives). The prefix "be-" intensifies the root, transforming "love" into a state of being deeply cherished. Over time, "beloved" evolved to describe both the feeling of being dearly loved and the person who inspires such affection.
She kept a photo of her beloved grandmother on the mantelpiece.
The novel tells the story of a beloved king and his loyal subjects.
His beloved dog followed him everywhere.
The song was dedicated to his beloved wife.
The town’s beloved bakery closed after decades of service.