What does "favorite" mean?

Favorite: pl. Short curls dangling over the temples; -- fashionable in the reign of Charles II. [Obs.] Farquhar.

Additional senses

  1. 2.(Sporting) The competitor (as a horse in a race) that is judged most likely to win; the competitor standing highest in the betting.
  2. 3.Regarded with particular affection, esteem, or preference; as, a favorite walk; a favorite child. "His favorite argument." Macaulay.

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