nearest and dearest
The phrase "nearest and dearest" is often used to describe the people with whom one shares the closest emotional bonds, typically family and close friends.
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Definition
B2General
(informal, idiomatic)The people with whom one shares the closest emotional bonds, typically family and close friends.
Example
- During the holidays, I love spending time with my nearest and dearest.
B2Emotional Bonds
(informal, idiomatic)Individuals who are most cherished and valued in one's life.
Example
- She invited all her nearest and dearest to the wedding.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "nearest and dearest":
next of kinclose to one's heartclose byclose to homenear at handclose to