favor
favor Lexical Profile
favor Game Scores & Validity
• noun
American An act of kindness beyond what is due or usual, performed out of goodwill to help someone.
"Could you do me a quick favor and drop this letter in the mailbox on your way out?"
American Approval, support, or friendly regard shown toward a person, idea, or cause.
"The committee looked with favor upon her innovative proposal for urban green spaces."
American Overly generous or unfair preferential treatment given to one person or group at the expense of another.
"A fair judge must decide every case on its legal merits without fear or favor."
American A small gift, trinket, or souvenir distributed to guests at a party, wedding, or celebration.
"Each guest received a small jar of local honey as a wedding favor."
• verb
American To feel or show approval, preference, or support for one option, person, or policy over another.
"Most council members favor the plan to expand public transit across the metropolitan area."
American To work to the advantage of someone or something, or to facilitate a particular outcome.
"Mild winters and nutrient-rich soil favor the rapid growth of these coastal shrubs."
American To treat gently or avoid putting weight or strain on an injured or painful body part.
"The veterinarian noticed that the horse was favoring its left front leg after the race."
American To bear a physical resemblance to a parent or relative (often in informal or regional usage).
"With her bright green eyes and curly hair, she strongly favors her maternal grandmother."
Word Nuance & Usage
'Favor' is the standard American English spelling, whereas 'favour' is used in British, Canadian, and Australian English.
• Rhymes for favor
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English 'favour', borrowed from Old French 'favor', from Latin 'favor' ('goodwill, partiality, applause'), derived from 'favere' ('to show kindness to, befriend, support').