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.
Phrases and idioms:
on offer for sale at a certain (esp. reduced) price.
Derivatives:
offerer n. offeror n.
Etymology: OE offrian in religious sense, f. L offerre (as OB-, ferre bring)