Meaning of precious in English

1. Pronunciation

   /ˈprɛʃəs/

   US accent

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   UK accent

   How to pronounce precious in British English, in context ▾
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1. Classifying Adjective

   precious

   Definitions

   1. characterized by feeling or showing fond affection for

   Examples

   • « a cherished friend »
   • « children are precious »
   • « a treasured heirloom »
   • « so good to feel wanted »

   Synonyms

   • loved
2. 2. of high worth or cost

   Examples

   • « diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are precious stones »

   Synonyms

   • valuable
3. 3. obviously contrived to charm

   Examples

   • « an insufferably precious performance »
   • « a child with intolerably cute mannerisms »

   Synonyms

   • artful

4. Adverb

   precious

   Definitions

   1. extremely

   Examples

   • « there is precious little time left »