PREFER', L. proefero proe, before, and fero, to bear or carry.
1. Literally, to bear or carry in advance, in the mind, affections or choice hence, to regard more than another to honor or esteem above another.
It is sometimes followed by above, before, or to.
If I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy. Psalms 137
He that cometh after me, is preferred before me. John 1 .
2. To advance, as to an office or dignity to raise to exalt as, to prefer one to a bishopric to prefer an officer to the rank of general.
3. To offer to present to exhibit usually with solemnity, or to a public body. It is our privilege to enjoy the right of preferring petitions to rulers for redress of wrongs.
My vows and prayers to thee preferred.
Prefer a bill against all kings and parliaments since the conquest.
4. To offer or present ceremoniously, or in ordinary familiar language.
He spake, and to her hand preferr'd the bowl.
This is allowable, at least in poetry, though not usual.