preferred

adjective

pre·​ferred pri-ˈfərd 

1

: liked better or best : used or wanted in preference to others

a preferred method

'Leveled' is the preferred spelling in American English.

2

: having special status or receiving special treatment or benefits

preferred customers

Synonyms of preferred

• selected
• select
• favorite
• favored
• chosen

Examples of preferred in a Sentence

my preferred means of communication is e-mail

Recent Examples on the Web

James Bord, the professional poker player and owner of Scottish club Dunfermline Athletic, had initially been named the preferred bidder by administrators on Christmas Eve, only to withdraw from the process in late February. — Philip Buckingham, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026

An adult user usually has a preferred seat height that promotes comfort and security. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 13 Aug. 2026

Then, with the aid of a good pocketbook on plant identification, look for preferred food types. — Tom Huggler, Outdoor Life, 13 Aug. 2026

In fact, this is the preferred distribution model for global streamers in other countries that have successfully introduced domestic programming contribution requirements. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 13 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1748, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing preferred

• preferred provider
• preferred provider organization
• preferred stock

Rhymes for preferred

• afterword
• firebird
• hummingbird
• ladybird
• mockingbird
• overheard
• thunderbird
• undergird
• undeterred
• absurd
• averred
• bluebird