Word of the Day - 11/14/25
predilection
/,prɛd'əlɛkʃən/(n.): a strong liking
She has a predilection for spicy food, always adding extra chili to her meals.
(n.): a predisposition in favor of something
His predilection for solitary activities meant he often preferred reading to large social gatherings.
Word Origin
The word 'predilection' originates from the Latin 'praedilectionem', the noun form of 'praediligere' (to prefer beforehand, to choose in advance). 'Praediligere' is composed of 'prae-' meaning 'before' or 'in preference', and 'diligere' meaning 'to love, to esteem, to choose'. The word 'diligere' itself comes from 'dis-' (apart) and 'legere' (to choose, gather). Thus, 'predilection' refers to a preference or special liking for something, a favorable inclination developed beforehand.
Words with similar origins include 'diligence' and 'diligent', both derived from the Latin 'diligere' (to love, esteem, be attentive) and 'diligens' (attentive, careful), sharing the root meaning of careful selection or devoted attention.