apple of the eye
Most cherished person
The apple of someone's eye is a person they cherish above all others: His youngest daughter was the apple of his eye.
The phrase originally referred to the pupil—once thought to be a solid sphere—which you instinctively protect.
Now it means anyone or anything especially treasured or favored.
Held dear, prized
- adoredIntensely cherished
- treasuredRegarded with deep affection
- darlingBeloved person or pet
- sweetheartAffectionate name for beloved
dearest · favorite · pride and joy · heart's desire · loved one · dear one · golden child · number one
Held in high regard
- esteemedGreatly respected, admired
- reveredDeeply respected, admired
- honoredGiven recognition or respect
- respectedHeld in high regard
admired · prized · venerated · celebrated · acclaimed · lauded · praised · exalted
Warm liking or affection
- affectionWarm emotional attachment
- attachmentConnection or fondness
- devotionDeep, loyal commitment
- dotingExcessively affectionate toward
adoration · worship · idolization · tenderness · love · infatuation · passion · care
Wary and restrained
- shieldedProtected from harm
- watched overProtected through vigilance
- shelteredKept safe from harm
- safeguardedKept from harm
preserved · cared for · looked after · nurtured · coddled · defended · coveted · wrapped in cotton wool
cherished
Held dear, prized
sweetheart · dearest · favorite · pride and joy · heart's desire · loved one · dear one · golden child · number one · jewel
valued
Held in high regard
- esteemedGreatly respected, admired
- reveredDeeply respected, admired
- honoredGiven recognition or respect
respected · admired · prized · venerated · celebrated · acclaimed · lauded · praised · exalted · appreciated
fondness
Warm liking or affection
- affectionWarm emotional attachment
- attachmentConnection or fondness
- devotionDeep, loyal commitment
doting · adoration · worship · idolization · tenderness · love · infatuation · passion · care · protectiveness
guarded
Wary and restrained
- shieldedProtected from harm
- watched overProtected through vigilance
- shelteredKept safe from harm
safeguarded · preserved · cared for · looked after · nurtured · coddled · defended · coveted · wrapped in cotton wool
apple of the eyeblack sheep
Disreputable family member
outcast · pariah · persona non grata · red-headed stepchild · scapegoat
apple of the eyeblack sheep
Disreputable family member
disgrace · family shame · embarrassment · disappointment · thorn in one's side