preferable

adjective

pref·​er·​a·​ble ˈpre-f(ə-)rə-bəl 

ˈpre-fər-bəl

also pri-ˈfər-ə-bəl

: having greater value or desirability : being preferred

preferability

ˌpre-f(ə-)rə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

Examples of preferable in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

George Russell’s fastest time came in the closing hour of running, when the sun had set, and track conditions were cooler and more preferable. —Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 18 Feb. 2026

For years, the NBA has made an effort to curb tanking, the practice of teams intentionally losing in order to gain advantages in the coming seasons, such as preferable draft picks. —Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 18 Feb. 2026

Opponents cite health and safety concerns and argue standard time year-round would be preferable. —Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 18 Feb. 2026

Terracotta pots are preferable because the material wicks moisture away, reducing the risk of overwatering. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1666, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for preferable

• referable

Kids Definition

preferable

adjective

pref·​er·​a·​ble ˈpref-(ə-)rə-bəl 

ˈpref-ər-bəl

: worthy to be preferred : more desirable

preferability

ˌpref-(ə-)rə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

noun

preferably

ˈpref-(ə-)rə-blē 

ˈpref-ər-

adverb