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Precious

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Of great value, highly prized, or cherished, often due to rarity or importance.
2. Worth a lot of money or considered to be highly valuable.
3. Loved or adored deeply, often used to describe something sentimental.
4. Rare or hard to find, making it especially valuable or significant.

History and Origin

The word “precious” comes from the Latin pretiosus, meaning “valuable” or “of great price,” derived from pretium, meaning “price” or “value.” It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe things that were considered valuable or important. Over time, it has come to include emotional or sentimental value, extending beyond just monetary worth.

Detailed Explanation

“Precious” refers to something that is highly valued, either for its material worth or its sentimental importance. It is often used to describe objects, people, or moments that are cherished or considered irreplaceable. The word conveys a sense of rarity, beauty, or significance. “Precious” can apply to tangible things, like jewels, or to abstract things, like time, memories, or relationships. It is a term that emphasizes the importance or deep affection one has for something or someone.

Example Sentences

1. The necklace was a precious family heirloom passed down through generations.
2. She held the letter from her grandmother as a precious keepsake.
3. Time spent with loved ones is the most precious gift of all.
4. The precious gemstones were carefully displayed in the museum’s collection.
5. He made a precious memory when he proposed to her on the beach.
6. Her precious little dog followed her everywhere, bringing her comfort.
7. The artist treated the painting as a precious work of art, putting much care into every brushstroke.
8. The newborn baby was a precious addition to the family.
9. The rare book was a precious find for the collector.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Valuable – Having great worth, especially in terms of money or importance.
2. Priceless – So valuable that its worth cannot be measured in monetary terms.
3. Cherished – Loved and protected with great care and affection.
4. Treasured – Held in high regard or valued deeply, often for sentimental reasons.
5. Invaluable – So valuable that it cannot be replaced or measured, typically used for something irreplaceable.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Rare – Uncommon and difficult to find, often contributing to the value of something precious.
2. Exquisite – Beautifully made or highly refined, often used to describe something precious in appearance.
3. Beloved – Deeply loved or cherished, often used to describe someone precious in one’s life.
4. Sentimental – Relating to feelings of affection or nostalgia, often making something seem precious.
5. Sacred – Regarded with deep respect or reverence, sometimes elevating something to the status of being precious.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Esteemed – Highly regarded or respected, often making someone or something precious in value.
2. Admired – Looked upon with approval and respect, often making someone precious in others’ eyes.
3. Special – Different from the ordinary, often making something precious or unique.
4. Irreplaceable – So unique or valuable that it cannot be replaced, making it precious.
5. Loved – Deeply cared for or adored, often used to describe something or someone precious.

Antonyms

1. Worthless
2. Invaluable
3. Disposable
4. Common
5. Unimportant