Dead, or otherwise loved (6)
I believe the answer is:
adored
'loved' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)
'dead or otherwise' is the wordplay.
'otherwise' is an anagram indicator.
'dead'+'or'='deador'
'deador' with letters rearranged gives 'ADORED'.
(Other definitions for adored that I've seen before include "Worshipped and revered" , "having lover" , "Cherished" , "Really liked" , "Loved dearly" .)