preference

 
Pronunciation: /ˈprɛf(ə)r(ə)ns/

noun

  • 1a greater liking for one alternative over another or others: her preference for white wine he chose a clock in preference to a watch
  • a thing preferred: nearly 40 per cent named acid house as their musical preference
  • [mass noun] favour shown to one person or thing over another or others: preference is given to those who make a donation
  • 2 Law a prior right or precedence, especially in connection with the payment of debts: debts owed to the community should be accorded a preference

Origin:

late Middle English (in the sense 'promotion'): from Old French, from medieval Latin praeferentia, from Latin praeferre 'carry in front' (see prefer)