I. ˈpräfə(r) verb
( proffered ; proffered ; proffering -f(ə)riŋ ; proffers )
Etymology: Middle English profren, from Anglo-French profrer, from Old French poroffrir, from por- forth (from Latin pro- ) + offrir to offer — more at pro- , offer
transitive verb
1. : to present for acceptance : tentatively advance for consideration : suggest as a proposal : tender
hovered round me … with their hands full of fading flowers, which they at length proffered me — Samuel Butler †1902
was proffered the leadership but declined it — J.G.Smith
return proffered smiles — Newsweek
2. : to propose or suggest a readiness and willingness
proffered to lend him one — D.D.Martin
intransitive verb
obsolete : to move as if about to act : hesitate
when you see him ready to enter water, say he proffereth — H.J.Pye
Synonyms: see offer
II. noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English profre, profer, from Anglo-French profre, from profrer
1. : an offer made : something proposed for acceptance : suggestion
her more than generous proffer — C.G.Bowers
his proffer of hospitality — Irving Bacheller
2. obsolete : a display of willingness : attempt , essay