favorite

¹fa·vor·ite

noun \ˈfā-v(ə-)rət, ˈfā-vərt, chiefly dialect ˈfā-və-ˌrīt\

Definition of FAVORITE

1

: one that is treated or regarded with special favor or liking; especially : a person who is specially loved, trusted, or provided with favors by someone of high rank or authority

2

: a competitor judged most likely to win

Examples of FAVORITE

1. Of all his books, do you have a favorite?
2. That movie is my favorite.
3. That movie is a great favorite with audiences everywhere.

Origin of FAVORITE

Italian favorito, past participle of favorire to favor, from favore favor, from Latin favor

First Known Use: 1583

Related to FAVORITE

Synonyms

darling, fave, minion, pet, preference, speed, cup of tea

Related Words

beloved, dear, sweetheart; jewel, prize, treasure

Near Antonyms

abomination, anathema, bête noire, bugbear

²favorite

adjective

Definition of FAVORITE

: constituting a favorite; especially : markedly popular

Examples of FAVORITE

1. <that teacher claims not to have any favorite students, although many in the class would disagree>
2. <mint chocolate chip is my favorite flavor of ice cream>

First Known Use of FAVORITE

1692

Related to FAVORITE

Synonyms

beloved, cherished, dear, fair-haired, favored, darling, fond, loved, pet, precious, special, sweet, white-headed

Antonyms

unbeloved

Related Words

admired, adored, appreciated, esteemed, relished, revered; prized, treasured; preferred

Near Antonyms

abhorred, abominated, despised, detested, disdained, disfavored, disliked, execrated, hated, loathed, unfavorite; abandoned, forgotten, ignored; alienated, estranged