Precious

/ˈprɛʃəs/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Of great value; not to be wasted or treated carelessly.
The rare gemstones are considered precious and are stored in a secure vault.
Loved or cherished.
She held her precious memories of childhood close to her heart.
Having a high price or cost.
The artwork was precious, fetching millions at auction.
Affectedly refined or exotic.
He had a rather precious way of speaking that sometimes annoyed his friends.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Old French 'precieux' or Latin 'precious', from 'pretiosus', from 'pretium' meaning 'price'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

precious little
Very little; almost none.
precious moments
Valuable or treasured moments in life.

Related Words

priceless
So precious that it cannot be assigned a value.
treasure
A quantity of precious metals, gems, or other valuable objects.

Slang Meanings

Used affectionately to describe someone who is endearing or cute.
Look at that little kitten, it’s so precious!
A term used to mock someone being overly dramatic.
Oh, your feelings are so precious, aren’t they?