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KJV Dictionary Definition: near

near

NEAR, a. This seems to be a contracted word, from nigher, the comparative of neh, nih or nieh; strait, narrow; to narrow

1. Nigh; not far distant in place, time or degree. Regularly, near should be followed by to, but this is often omitted. We say, a house stands near a river; a friend sits near me; the man fell and was near destruction.

And Jacob went near to Isaac his father. Genesis 27.

Now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. Romans 13.

2. Closely related by blood.

She is thy fathers near kinswoman. Leviticus 18.

3. Not distant in affection, support or assistance; present; ready; willing to aid.

Call upon the Lord, while he is near. Isaiah 55.

4. Intimate; united in close ties of affection or confidence; as a near friend.

5. Dear; affecting ones interest or feelings; as a near concern.

My nearest life.

6. Close; parsimonious.

7. Close; not loose, free or rambling; as a version near the original.

8. Next to one; opposed to off; as the near horse or ox in a team.

nearest

NEAREST, a. Shortest; most direct; as the nearest way to London. So we use nearer for shorter. The use of these words is not correct, but very common.

nearness

NEARNESS, n.

1. Closeness; small distance. The nearness of a place to a market enhances the value of lands.

2. Close alliance by blood; propinquity; as the nearness of brothers and sisters, parents and children.

3. Close union by affection; intimacy of friendship.

4. Parsimony; closeness in expenses.