favour

fa-vour · noun, verb

imported

Definitions

noun, verb

  1. 1.

    An act of kindness or helpfulness beyond what is expected or usual.

  2. 2.

    To prefer or support something or someone.

  3. 3.

    Approval, support, or preference.

  4. 4.

    To treat someone with partiality or give them an advantage.

  5. 5.

    A small gift given to guests at a party or wedding.

  6. 6.

    To resemble (in appearance).

Forms

plural: favours

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    in favour of — Supporting; preferring
  • •
    do someone a favour — To help someone with something
  • •
    curry favour — To seek to gain favor through flattery
  • •
    return the favour — To repay a kindness

Related words

Antonyms: disfavour, opposition
See also: favor, kindness, preference
Synonyms: kindness, preference, service, support

Etymology

From Old French faveur, from Latin favor ("goodwill, kindness"), from favere ("to show goodwill"). The British spelling retains the French influence.