I. ˈfā-v(ə-)rət, ˈfā-vərt, chiefly dialect ˈfā-və-ˌrīt noun
Etymology: Italian favorito, past participle of favorire to favor, from favore favor, from Latin favor
Date: 1583
1. : one that is treated or regarded with special favor or liking ; especially : a person who is specially loved, trusted, or provided with favors by someone of high rank or authority
2. : a competitor judged most likely to win
II. adjective
Date: 1692
: constituting a favorite ; especially : markedly popular