confer

Definition

To grant as a possession; to bestow.

Etymology

From Early Modern English conferre, from Middle French conférer, from Old French conferer, from Latin cōnferō. Compare Dutch confereren, German konferieren, Danish konferere, Swedish konferera. Doublet of collate. See also infer, relate and refer, delate and defer, as well as prelate and prefer among others.

Example Sentences

• "The college has conferred an honorary degree upon the visiting Prime Minister."
• "Nor shall I count in hainous to enjoy The public marks of honour and reward Conferr'd upon me[…]"
• "Abel tried to refuse the honor thus unexpectedly conferred upon him, but it was no use. He had been made a deacon, and a deacon he must remain."

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