Main Entry: pref·er·ence

Pronunciation: \ˈpre-fərn(t)s, ˈpre-f(ə-)rən(t)s\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English preferraunce, from Middle French preferance, from Medieval Latin praeferentia, from Latin praeferent-, praeferens, present participle of praeferre

Date: 15th century

1 a : the act of preferring : the state of being preferred b : the power or opportunity of choosing
2 : one that is preferred
3 : the act, fact, or principle of giving advantages to some over others
4 : priority in the right to demand and receive satisfaction of an obligation
5 : orientation 2b <sexual preference>

synonyms see choice