Meaning of Word
Favourite: A person or thing regarded with particular affection, preference, or admiration.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Favourite (noun): A person or thing that is preferred or liked more than others.
- Favourite (adjective): Preferred above all others in terms of liking or affection.
- Favourite (noun): A competitor, team, or contestant that is expected to win or succeed.
- Favourite (adjective): Describing something that is most liked or chosen by someone.
History and Origin
The word favourite comes from the Old French word favorit, meaning “one who is favored,” derived from the Latin favorem, meaning “a liking or preference.” It entered the English language in the 14th century and has since evolved to describe anything or anyone that is particularly liked or preferred in comparison to others. The British spelling favourite is commonly used, while in American English, it is spelled favorite.
Detailed Explanation
Favourite is typically used to express a preference or affection for a specific person, thing, or activity over others. It can describe a preferred item (like a favourite food), person (like a favourite teacher), or even a favourite sports team or movie. The term reflects a sense of emotional attachment or admiration, and it can also be used in a competitive context, where a “favourite” is someone or something expected to win or succeed. The word conveys a sense of personal choice, often linked to enjoyment, comfort, or familiarity.
Example Sentences
- Chocolate is my favourite flavour of ice cream.
- She is his favourite artist, and he owns every album she’s released.
- His favourite pastime is reading mystery novels.
- The team is the favourite to win the championship this year.
- Her favourite book has been with her for years.
- He is the favourite to take over the company after the CEO retires.
- Their favourite spot to relax is by the beach.
- This is my favourite time of year because of the festive atmosphere.
- Her favourite subject in school is history.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Preferred: Liked or chosen over others.
- Beloved: Deeply loved or cherished.
- Choice: The item or person selected from among others.
- Top pick: The one chosen as the best or most liked.
- Adored: Loved deeply and with great affection.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Admired: Regarded with respect and affection.
- Liked: Enjoyed or appreciated, often casually.
- Popular: Liked or enjoyed by a large number of people.
- Favorite (US spelling): The American version of the British favourite.
- Esteemed: Held in high regard or respect.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Crush: A person one is infatuated with or likes intensely.
- Hero: A person admired for their qualities, sometimes a favourite.
- Preference: A greater liking for one thing over another.
- Treasure: Something valued or highly regarded.
- Pet: Often used to describe a favourite person or thing, as in “pet project.”
Antonyms
- Least favourite: The item or person disliked or preferred the least.
- Unpopular: Not liked or admired by many.
- Hated: Strongly disliked or detested.
- Disliked: Not liked or favored.
- Ignored: Not paid attention to or favored.