favour
/ˈfeɪ.və/ · fay.vur
noun
- A kind or helpful deed; an instance of voluntarily assisting (someone). He did me a favour when he took the time to drive me home.
- Goodwill; benevolent regard. She enjoyed the queen's favour.
- A small gift; a party favour. A marriage favour is a bunch or knot of white ribbons or white flowers worn at a wedding.
verb
- To look upon fondly; to prefer. I favour the blue dress over the red one.
- To encourage, conduce to. The new policy will favour the growth of local businesses.
- To do a favour [noun sense 1] for; to show beneficence toward. Would you favour us with a poetry reading?
Did you know? The phrase 'favour of the court' originated in medieval times, referring to the favour or goodwill of a king or queen, which could grant protection or privilege to a person or group.