PREFERRED Synonyms: 97 Similar and Opposite Words

preferred 1 of 2

adjective

pri-ˈfərd

Definition of preferred

as in selected

singled out from a number or group as more to one's liking my preferred means of communication is e-mail

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

preferred

2 of 2

verb

past tense of prefer

as in liked

to show partiality toward I generally prefer chocolate ice cream over vanilla

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in chose

to decide to accept (someone or something) from a group of possibilities most buyers of that vehicle have preferred the model with four-wheel drive

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of preferred

Adjective

However, a limitation of the research methods was that participants described their preferred drinking temperature through self-reporting, rather than the study authors objectively measuring this factor. — Faye Chiu, CNN Money, 21 Oct. 2026 The fourth-generation Google Nest Learning Thermostat creates an energy-saving routine based on your preferred temperatures and works seamlessly with Google Home, Apple Home and other smart-home networks. — Dan Avery, CNBC, 21 Oct. 2026

Verb

The alternative is for today’s AI empires to attempt, as their Cold War predecessors did half a century ago, what Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev called peaceful coexistence and American statesmen preferred to call détente. — Niall Ferguson, Foreign Affairs, 20 Oct. 2026 Those who wanted to build a new society have been overshadowed by those who preferred to destroy it. — Ollivier Pourriol, Vanity Fair, 19 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for preferred

Recent Examples of Synonyms for preferred

Adjective

Meanwhile, the first stage can handle different solid rocket motors for pre-selected range, speed, and performance profiles, as well as different booster types and other modular components.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 17 Oct. 2026
The Pope Leo Village Homes initiative is underway in Bronzeville with five of the seven area homes under construction and two with selected homeowners.

— Everett Eaton, jsonline.com, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of selected

Verb

Terry Kay liked to tell the story of how he was coerced into writing his first novel by Pat Conroy, who told his literary agent Kay had written a brilliant manuscript.

— Suzanne Van Atten, AJC.com, 18 Oct. 2026
And while the bye comes a bit earlier than many would’ve liked, the Dolphins are 0-5.

— Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of liked

Verb

The property later passed through several notable hands, including Creative Artists Agency (CAA) co-chairman Kevin Huvane and filmmaker Roberto Sneider, before Channing Tatum picked it up for $6 million in 2015, according to Variety.

— Michael Gioia, Architectural Digest, 21 Oct. 2026
Kansas was picked to finish fifth in the Big 12 preseason poll; the highest finish of the Schneider era was fifth place in 2021-22.

— PJ Green October 21, Kansas City Star, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of picked

Adjective

Doesn't expire Up to 50% off The TJ Maxx clearance section is one of the best ways to snag a deal at the retailer, with up to 50% off select styles.

— Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 24 Oct. 2026
Available now at Asos and select Adidas retailers, the latest collaboration revisits one of the German sportswear company’s most recognizable silhouettes, this time through a distinctly autumnal lens.

— Camila Quimper, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2026

Definition of select

Verb

Know More The Senate race is absolutely everywhere in Iowa, which is also home to three competitive House races and a governor’s race (Democrat Rob Sand is now favored to defeat Republican Zach Lahn).

— Burgess Everett, semafor.com, 22 Oct. 2026
The false polling data from Wedgewood Polls consistently favored Democrats, particularly progressive candidates.

— Hailey Bullis, The Washington Examiner, 22 Oct. 2026

Definition of favored

Verb

Areas away from Chesapeake Bay have enjoyed abundant sunshine Thursday with a refreshing breeze and highs around 70°.

— Steven Sosna, CBS News, 22 Oct. 2026
His youthful face belies his ability to play in one of the most demanding positions on the field, defensive midfield, a spot usually reserved for senior professionals who’ve enjoyed decades of experience.

— Ben Church, CNN Money, 22 Oct. 2026

Definition of enjoyed

Browse Nearby Words

preferments

preferred

preferring

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Preferred.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/preferred. Accessed 25 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of preferred

adjective

verb

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