1. the quality or state of being expensive or high in price
2. the quality of being loved or cherished; affection or fondness
Usage: literary or formal

Examples

• The dearness of housing in the city makes it difficult for young families to buy homes.
• She spoke of her grandmother with great dearness in her voice.
• The dearness of imported goods has increased due to tariffs.
• He held the old photograph with dearness, remembering his childhood.
• Consumers complained about the dearness of fresh produce at the market.
• The dearness of their friendship was evident in how they supported each other.