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 choosing2: one that is preferred3: the act, fact, or principle of giving advantages to some over others4: priority in the right to demand and receive satisfaction of an obligation5: orientation 2b <sexual preference>

synonyms see choice