1. (n.) A person or thing regarded with peculiar favor; one treated with partiality; one preferred above others; especially, one unduly loved, trusted, and enriched with favors by a person of high rank or authority.

2. (n.) Short curls dangling over the temples; -- fashionable in the reign of Charles II.

3. (n.) The competitor (as a horse in a race) that is judged most likely to win; the competitor standing highest in the betting.

4. (a.) Regarded with particular affection, esteem, or preference; as, a favorite walk; a favorite child.

accepted acclaimed admired admitted adored advocated applauded approved backed beloved cherished choice chosen cosset cried up darling dear dearly beloved entry esteemed favored fondling held dear highly touted ideal idol in good odor jewel loved matinee idol minion mudder pet pick picked plate horse plater pole horse pony popular precious preference preferred prized race horse racer received recommended revered selected spoiled child stable stake horse staker starter steeplechaser string supported treasured well-beloved well-liked well-thought-of white-haired