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
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
To Kill a Mockingbird
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
300 Most Difficult "SAT" Words
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
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.
I worked with Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, who had a real predilection for civics education.
From Salon • Sep. 8, 2025
She received a torrent of criticism for her budget-cutting predilection, in the form of combative interviews from press that she was seemingly powerless to repel.
From Slate • Jan. 17, 2025
Moderate Democrats in the area have been nicknamed “Valleycrats,” to signal their predilection for voting for the person they believe will do the best job for the district rather than sticking with any one party.
From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 24, 2024
Given his "predilection for undercooked pork", doctors surmised he contracted the tapeworm from his "eating habits".
From BBC • Mar. 14, 2024
Odile did not mind this predilection, seeing that it went along with, and probably helped, his emancipation from the dullness of his Northampton upbringing.
From "Double Helix" by James D. Watson
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.
