The spelling of "favourite" may seem a bit confusing to non-native English speakers. However, the word is phonetically transcribed as /ˈfeɪvərɪt/. The "ou" combination is pronounced as a long "a" sound, while the "vour" combination is pronounced as "ver". This word is often spelled with the letter "o" instead of "ou" in American English, resulting in "favorite". Nevertheless, "favourite" is the common spelling in British English, as well as in many other English-speaking countries outside the US.
Favourite is an adjective commonly used to describe something that is preferred or liked above others. It denotes a particular choice or selection that holds a higher level of preference, admiration, or support compared to similar alternatives. Often, a favourite is a person's most cherished or beloved choice among a selection of options.
In terms of personal taste, a favourite can refer to an individual's preferred item, such as a favourite food, book, or movie. It can also describe a person's preferred color, song, or hobby. In these contexts, it reflects a personal preference or fondness that brings pleasure or satisfaction.
Favourite can also be used in a broader sense, such as a favourite team in sports or a favourite candidate in an election. In such cases, it indicates a group or individual that is favored or supported more than others due to personal connection, loyalty, or special attributes.
The term is frequently used in the phrase "personal favourite," which implies that the preference or fondness for a particular choice is subjective and specific to an individual. It emphasizes the personal attachment or emotional connection one has with their chosen item or entity.
Overall, the term favourite conveys the idea of a top choice, capturing the essence of delight and exceptionalism found in the preferred option among a collection of alternatives.
• Esteemed, beloved, preferred.
• One preferred before others.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "favourite" can be derived from the Old French word "favorit" which means "favored one" or "well-liked". It is rooted in the Latin word "favere" meaning "to favor". The modern spelling of "favourite" emerged in English during the 16th century, influenced by the French spelling. The term is commonly used to describe a person, thing, or activity that is preferred over others.