Precious

Definition

Precious refers to something of great value, not to be wasted or treated carelessly, often possessing sentimental or intrinsic worth.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɛʃəs/
• Respelling: PRESH-uhs (with "PRESH" as in "pressure," and "uhs" as in the common ending "us")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɛʃəs/
• Respelling: PRESH-uhs (similar to American English, with "PRESH" as in "pressure," and "uhs" as in the common ending "us")

In both dialects, "precious" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "PRESH." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, highlighting the strong emphasis on the initial syllable.

Etymology

The term "precious" originates from the Old French word "precius", which is derived from the Latin "pretiosus", meaning "of great value" or "costly".

Derivatives

• Preciousness
• Preciously
• Precious-metal
• Preciosity
• Precious-stone

Synonyms

• Valuable
• Cherished
• Priceless

Antonyms

• Worthless
• Insignificant
• Cheap

Usage

The word "precious" is commonly used to describe objects of great material or sentimental value. It can refer to rare gems, metals, or antiques, as well as moments, memories, or loved ones that hold deep personal significance.

Related Terms

• Precious metal
• Precious moments
• Precious cargo
• Precious gem
• Precious resource

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Of great value, especially in terms of monetary or sentimental worth.
• Example: "Diamonds are considered precious stones because of their rarity and beauty."

• Used to express approval, particularly of a child.
• Example: "Isn't she a precious little one?"

• (Informal) Excessively delicate, overrefined, or affected.
• Example: "His mannerisms were a bit too precious for her liking."

^{Note that} While "precious" is primarily used as an adjective, it can also be used as an adverb in a specific way to intensify adjectives, typically in phrases like "precious few" or "precious little," where it means "very few" or "very little." This adverbial use is less common and tends to appear more in formal or literary contexts than in everyday speech.