English Reference
adjective · noun

preferred

adj. · n.
US /pɹəˈfɝd/ UK /pɹɪfˈɜːd/ pre·ferred

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    adj.liked or wanted more than other things.

    adj.selected as being more desirable or having priority over alternatives.

    Simple

    Please indicate your preferred method of contact on the application form.

    In context

    The candidate's preferred start date was early September, though she remained open to negotiation if the project required an earlier arrival.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Finance

    n.a type of stock that gives the owner a better right to receive payments than regular stock.

    n.a class of ownership in a corporation that has a higher claim on assets and earnings than common stock.

    Simple

    The company issued new preferred to raise capital without giving away voting rights.

    In context

    Investors who hold preferred are typically entitled to receive dividends before any distribution is made to common shareholders.

    Usage

    Usually functions as an uncountable noun or a collective plural in financial contexts.

    preferred stockpreference shares
    common stock

Usage appreciation preferred · merit preferred

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated