Querido

Querido is a term used in Spanish and Portuguese with meanings "dear," "beloved," or "darling." It functions as an adjective describing affection toward a person, object, or idea, and as a vocative in direct address. In both languages, the base forms are gendered and number-based: Spanish "querido" (masc sing), "querida" (fem sing), "queridos" (masc pl), "queridas" (fem pl); Portuguese equivalents are "querido" and "querida" for singular, "queridos" and "queridas" for plural. The word derives from the verb querer (to want, to love).

In Spanish, "querido" is commonly used before a noun as "mi querido amigo" or as a salutation in letters and emails, e.g., "Querido Juan," though in formal correspondence "estimado" or "distinguido" may be preferred. In Portuguese, the usage mirrors this, with "querido" used similarly in speaking and writing, including greetings like "Querida Maria."

The tone conveyed by "querido" can range from affectionate to intimate, making it less formal than equivalents such as "estimado" in Spanish or "prezado" in Portuguese. Its usage appears in literature, journalism, and media titles as a sign of warmth or emphasis.