— preferentialism , n. — preferentialist , n. — preferentially , adv.
/pref'euh ren"sheuhl/ , adj.
1. of, pertaining to, or of the nature of preference: preferential policies.
2. showing or giving preference: a preferential hiring system.
3. receiving or enjoying preference, as a country in trade relations; favored.
[ 1840-50; praeferenti ( a ) PREFERENCE + -AL 1 ]