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

For Peverill Squire, a retired University of Missouri political science professor, those conflicting arguments illustrate the idea that the preferred outcome of a modern political campaign is more important than being ideologically consistent. — Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 23 July 2026

Now, some online — including Elon Musk — are touting AI generation tools as an avenue to realize their preferred vision of the classic epic. — Daniela Suarez, NBC news, 23 July 2026

Oracle reportedly facing cost overruns watch now Choose CNBC as your preferred source on Google and never miss a moment from the most trusted name in business news. — Jordan Novet, CNBC, 23 July 2026

As a Fixed sign, Leos tend to cling tightly to their opinions, decisions and preferred way of doing things, even when a better option is right in front of their eyes. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 23 July 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