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. Gen 27.

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

2. Closely related by blood.

She is thy fathers near kinswoman. Lev 18.

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

Call upon the Lord, while he is near. Isa 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.

, v.t. To approach; to come nearer; as, the ship neared the land; a seamans phrase.