1 [U,sing.] ~ (for sb/sth) a greater interest in or desire for sb/sth than sb/sth else:
It's a matter of personal preference. * Many people expressed a strong preference for the original plan. * I can't say that I have any particular preference. * Let's make a list of possible speakers, in order of preference.
2 [C] a thing that is liked better or best:
a study of consumer preferences
IDIOMS
give (a) preference to sb/sth to treat sb/sth in a way that gives them an advantage over other people or things:
Preference will be given to graduates of this university.
in preference to sb/sth rather than sb/sth:
She was chosen in preference to her sister.
