predilection
Americannoun
noun
Etymology
Origin of predilection
First recorded in 1735–45; from Middle French prédilection, Italian predilezione, and Medieval Latin praedīlect(us) “beloved, preferred,” past participle of praedīligere “to prefer” ( see predilect) + -ion
Explanation
A predilection is a preference for or bias toward something. If you have a predilection for wool clothing, you should take up knitting. Predilection is based on the Latin verb praediligere, or "prefer before others," which breaks down to prae, before, and diligere, "choose or love." We often use the word predilection for tendencies that people seem to have been born with, also called predispositions. If you're a night owl, you probably have a predilection for cities, while morning people tend to prefer the country.
Vocabulary lists containing predilection
The Crucible
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To Kill a Mockingbird
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300 Most Difficult "SAT" Words
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
He brought up the landmark with his second winner of the night at his local track - on Predilection, trained by John Gosden.
From BBC • Aug. 12, 2016
I have in particular a Predilection for that Regiment.
From The Writings of Samuel Adams - Volume 3 by Cushing, Harry Alonzo
She was the Blessed among women, the Queen of Heaven glorified by the nine Choirs of Angels, the Mother of Predilection, the Treasure of the Lord.
From Abbe Mouret's Transgression by Zola, Émile
Predilection, prē-di-lek′shun, n. a choosing beforehand: favourable prepossession of mind: partiality.—v.t.
From Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 3 of 4: N-R) by Various
And I question whether it would not have been thought a well judgd Appointment, if there had not been a fanciful Predilection in favor of Another.
From The Writings of Samuel Adams - Volume 4 by Cushing, Harry Alonzo
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
