favorite

adjective

Laura was his favorite aunt:

best-loved, most-liked, favored, dearest, treasured, pet, special, closest to one's heart;

preferred, chosen, choice, ideal;

of choice;

informal fav.

▷antonyms least-liked.

noun

1 Brutus was always Caesar's favorite:

first choice, choice, pick, preference, pet, beloved, darling;

idol, hero, god, goddess, gem, jewel, jewel in the crown;

informal fav, blue-eyed boy, golden boy, teacher's pet, the apple of one's eye;

North American, informal fair-haired boy.

▷antonyms bête noire.

2 the favorite fell at the very first fence:

expected winner, probable winner, front runner.

▷antonyms underdog.