'preference' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'praeferentia,' where 'prae-' meant 'before' and 'ferre' meant 'to carry.'

'praeferentia' transformed into the Old French word 'preference,' and eventually became the modern English word 'preference' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to carry before or in front of,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a greater liking for one alternative over another.'