Darling

n. [A.-S. deorling, from deore, dear. Cf. Ger. liebling, D. lieveling. See DEAR and LING.] One dearly beloved; a favorite.

And can do nought but wail her darling's loss. Shak.

a. Dearly beloved; regarded with especial kindness and tenderness; favorite. “Some darling science.” Watts. “Darling sin.” Macaulay.

n. Same as DARLING. [Obs.] Spenser.