Dearie

HON

Think of how a Southern belle might affectionately shorten "honey" in conversation.

"Dearie" is a term of endearment often shortened to "hon," which is a casual way to say "honey." The clue plays on the affectionate nickname, dropping the "ey" sound to leave just "HON." It’s a straightforward abbreviation you might hear in everyday speech, especially in some American dialects.