Dictionary

Someone (or something) who is loved; a darling.

Of high value or worth.

Example: The crown had many precious gemstones.   This building work needs site access, and tell the city council that I don't care about a few lorry tyre ruts across their precious grass verge.

Regarded with love or tenderness.

Example: My precious daughter is to marry.

Treated with too much reverence.

Example: He spent hours painting the eyes of the portrait, which his fellow artists regarded as a bit precious.

Contrived to be cute or charming.

Very; an intensifier.

Example: There is precious little we can do.