Preferred
prɪˈfɜːrd
Definitions
2 meaningsTo like or choose one thing over others.
prɪˈfɜːr
To like or want (something) more than others.
I prefer to walk in the park.
💡 Simply: It's like when you get to choose between ice cream and cake, and you really, really like ice cream better! You *prefer* ice cream.
👶 For kids: To like something better than other things.
More Examples
She prefers reading books to watching TV.
Do you prefer tea or coffee?
How It's Used
"I prefer coffee to tea."
"The company prefers candidates with experience."
Regarded more favorably than others.
prɪˈfɜːrd
Liked or wanted more than others.
This is my preferred method of travel.
💡 Simply: If you have a *preferred* seat on the plane, it means that's the one you like the best and were able to get.
👶 For kids: Something you like best or better than other things.
More Examples
She had a preferred parking space.
We are offering preferred rates to our long-term customers.
How It's Used
"We booked a preferred seating on the flight."
"Preferred stock often has a higher dividend."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
preferred stock
A class of stock that usually pays a fixed dividend but does not have voting rights.
"Investors often purchase preferred stock for its dividend yield."
preferred provider
A healthcare provider that is part of an insurance company's network, often offered at a lower cost.
"The insurance plan encourages patients to use a preferred provider."
From Middle English preferren, from Old French preferer, from Latin praeferre ('to carry before, prefer'), from prae ('before') + ferre ('to carry').
The word has been in use since the 14th century, originally referring to 'advancing in estimation or favor'. Its meaning broadened over time to encompass general preferences.
Memory tip
Think of 'pre' (before) and 'fer' (carry). You carry one option 'before' the others in your mind.
Word Origin
"to carry before, to favor"