This adjective means 'very costly' or 'extremely expensive,' describing something of exceptional value. Matthew uses it to describe the alabaster flask of 'very expensive ointment' (μύρου βαρυτίμου) that a woman poured on Jesus' head at Bethany (Matt 26:7). The disciples objected to the 'waste,' calculating the ointment's market value, but Jesus defended her act as a beautiful preparation for His burial. The term underscores the extravagance of her devotion—she gave what was most precious, and Jesus honored her gift as prophetic worship. Classical usage includes 'punishing severely,' but the New Testament sense is monetary and metaphorical value.