v. & n.
v. 1 tr. present for acceptance or refusal or consideration (offered me a drink; was offered a lift; offer one's services; offer no apology). 2 intr. (foll. by to + infin.) express readiness or show intention (offered to take the children). 3 tr. provide; give an opportunity for. 4 tr. make available for sale. 5 tr. (of a thing) present to one's attention or consideration (each day offers new opportunities). 6 tr. present (a sacrifice, prayer, etc.) to a deity. 7 intr. present itself; occur (as opportunity offers). 8 tr. give an opportunity for (battle) to an enemy. 9 tr. attempt, or try to show (violence, resistance, etc.).
n. 1 an expression of readiness to do or give if desired, or to buy or sell (for a certain amount). 2 an amount offered. 3 a proposal (esp. of marriage). 4 a bid. on offer for sale at a certain (esp. reduced) price. offerer n. offeror n.
[ OE offrian in religious sense, f. L offerre (as OB-, ferre bring) ]