adj
Very common
loved
luhvd
Loved (adj) means Held dear; cherished by someone. Example: “The old teacher was a loved figure in the village for many years.”
adj
1
Held dear; cherished by someone.
"The old teacher was a loved figure in the village for many years."
"Every child deserves to feel safe and loved at home."
"She was deeply loved by her whole family."
How to use loved
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishCared for and cherished.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
a loved one
well loved
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more loved
- Superlative
- most loved
Fill the gap
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The old teacher was a _____ figure in the village for many years.
Etymology
From Middle English loved, luvd, from Old English lufode, first and third person singular past indicative of lufian; and Middle English loved, iloved, from Old English ġelufod, past participle of lufian; both equivalent to love + -ed.
Related words
Rhymes for loved
See all rhymes for loved →Frequently asked questions
What does “loved” mean?
The word “loved” means held dear; cherished by someone. In plain terms, cared for and cherished.
How do you pronounce “loved”?
“Loved” is pronounced luhvd (/lʌvd/ in IPA).
How do you use “loved” in a sentence?
Here is “loved” used in a sentence: “She was deeply loved by her whole family.”
What part of speech is “loved”?
“Loved” is an adjective.
Is “loved” a common word?
“Loved” is a very common word in modern English.
What is the difference between 'loved' and 'beloved'?
Both mean held dear, but they differ in tone and use. 'Loved' is the everyday word — 'a much-loved teacher,' 'she felt loved.' 'Beloved' is stronger and more formal or poetic, often placed before a noun or used as a term of endearment: 'my beloved friend,' 'dearly beloved.'
What is the difference between 'loved' and 'loving'?
'Loved' describes someone or something that receives love — the object of affection: 'a loved child.' 'Loving' describes someone who gives love or shows it: 'a loving parent.' In short, a loved person is cherished by others, while a loving person is warm and affectionate toward others.
What does it mean to feel loved?
To feel loved is to sense that you are held dear and valued by someone — that your presence matters and you are cared for. It often comes from warmth, attention, kindness, and being accepted as you are. Feeling loved brings comfort and security, and is widely seen as a basic human need.
What is the opposite of 'loved'?
The opposite is 'unloved,' 'hated,' or 'despised,' depending on how strong you want to be. 'Unloved' describes someone who receives no love or affection; 'hated' and 'despised' add active dislike. Where 'loved' means cherished and held dear, its opposites range from simply neglected to strongly disliked.
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