What does favourite mean?
"Favourite" refers to the person or thing one likes best among others of the same kind — a cherished book, a trusted friend, a team expected to win. It functions as both a noun and an adjective: one can have a favourite, or describe something as one's favourite. The word entered English in the sixteenth century from French, ultimately rooted in the Latin "favor," meaning goodwill or partial approval, and it retains traces of that history in phrases such as "favourite son." In everyday speech it carries warm, affectionate connotations, signalling personal attachment rather than objective ranking; in sport and politics, however, "the favourite" simply denotes the competitor most likely to win. The spelling "favourite" is standard in British English, with "favorite" prevailing in American usage. Its versatility, emotional warmth, and deep roots in the language of preference make it one of the most frequently used words for expressing what we love most.
A person or thing that is preferred above all others of the same kind; one specially liked or treated with partiality.
"That battered armchair was always his favourite, no matter how many new ones arrived."
In sporting and betting contexts, "the favourite" denotes the competitor considered most likely to win.
Best liked or most preferred; regarded with particular fondness or partiality.
"We cooked her favourite meal to celebrate the end of her exams."
(Historical) Enjoying the special favour or patronage of a ruler or influential person, often undeservedly.
"The king's favourite minister grew wealthy while more capable men were overlooked."
The plural "favourites" is used when referring to several preferred people or things, or to multiple competitors favoured to win. American spelling: "favorites."
"Visitors were invited to vote for their favourites among the hundred shortlisted paintings."
When "favourite" crossed from France into English in the late 1500s, it meant one thing above all: the king's closest companion at court — a role that could make or break fortunes overnight.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of favourite
"Favourite" derives from the French "favori," itself formed from "favor" (favour), tracing back to the Latin "favor," meaning goodwill or approval, from "favere," to favour or be well disposed toward. The word entered English in the late sixteenth century, initially referring to a person who enjoyed the special patronage of a monarch. Its Latin root also gave English related words such as "favor," "favorable," and "disfavor." The spelling "favourite" reflects French-influenced conventions adopted in Britain, while American English later settled on "favorite."
Related word forms
How favourite is actually used
"Favourite" is the standard British spelling; "favorite" predominates in American English, but both spellings are understood everywhere. The noun and adjective share the same form, so context determines the reading: in "the judge's favourite," it is a noun; in "the judge's favourite entry," it is an adjective. The word carries warm, positive connotations in everyday use, though in political or sporting contexts calling someone "the favourite" can add pressure rather than affection.
Easily confused with favourite
"Favourite" and "favorite" are the same word spelled differently — "favourite" follows British conventions while "favorite" is the standard American spelling.