beloved

adjective

be·​loved bi-ˈləvd How to pronounce beloved (audio) -ˈlə-vəd How to pronounce beloved (audio)
bē-
Synonyms of beloved
: dearly loved : dear to the heart
our beloved grandmother
a beloved public figure
beloved noun

Synonyms of beloved

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Examples of beloved in a Sentence

He is a beloved public figure. an actor beloved by millions of fans one of the city's most beloved buildings
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Within minutes, fans ranging from Tina Fey to Cameron Diaz to everyday people who love tuners were chiming in on Twitter with posts noting the joy of singing along with the beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein standard. — Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 17 Oct. 2026 Wilson’s a beloved documentarian who is able to make ordinary situations lively. — Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 17 Oct. 2026 There has been a tremendous amount of recent development in Chelsea, but, ever the story in New York City, as beloved old places close their doors, new favorites emerge. — The New Yorker, New Yorker, 16 Oct. 2026 Customers will find the usual array of irresistible doughnuts, including DK’s beloved maple bacon bar. — Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 16 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for beloved

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from past participle of beloven to love, from be- + loven to love

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of beloved was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing beloved

Rhymes for beloved

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Browse Nearby Words

Belousov-Zhabotinsky reaction
beloved
below
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Cite this Entry

“Beloved.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beloved. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

beloved

adjective
be·​loved bi-ˈləv(-ə)d How to pronounce beloved (audio)
: dearly loved
beloved noun
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