v.tr. (preferred, preferring) 1 (often foll. by to, or to + infin.) choose rather; like better (would prefer to stay; prefers coffee to tea). 2 submit (information, an accusation, etc.) for consideration. 3 promote or advance (a person). preferred shares (or stock) = preference shares or stock.
[ ME f. OF preferer f. L praeferre (as PRAE-, ferre lat- bear) ]