Expressing strong emotion, such as teariness or frustration.

An expression of surprise, dismay, or indulgent disapproval.

(dated) Used as the salutation at the beginning of a formal letter when addressing persons – assumed to be male – of unknown names.

An expression of dismay, concern, worry or disapproval.

(Ireland, dated) God knows; nobody knows / (Ireland, dated) God knows; of course, certainly, nobody could doubt

plural of dear heart

Term of affection; sweetheart.

An advice column written under the pen name Abigail Van Buren. / The columnist.

(endearing or patronizing) old woman

Desperately.