favourites

Favourites (British English) and favorites (American English) refer to items regarded with special preference or esteem. The term can function as a noun or an adjective: your favourites are the things you prefer most, and a favourite item is one that a person or group regards with particular favor. The plural form signals a collection, such as a list of foods, books, or places.

Etymology and usage conventions: the word derives from the noun favour (or favor) meaning support or approval, with the addition of the -ite suffix to form a person or thing of particular regard. The distinction between favourites and favorites reflects broader differences between British and American spelling conventions rather than a difference in meaning.

In computing and digital media: in many software applications a favorite is a saved item for quick access. Web browsers typically offer a Favorites or Bookmarks feature to store preferred links, while operating systems and apps may provide a similar mechanism for saving preferred files, contacts, or documents. The concept emphasizes personal convenience and quick retrieval rather than a universal endorsement.

In everyday language and culture: people use favourites to describe preferred choices in areas such as food, entertainment, or activities, as in “my favourite film” or “my favourite restaurant.” The term also appears in surveys, rankings, and recommendation systems to indicate items that are most highly regarded by an individual or group. On some platforms, the terminology and mechanisms for saving or endorsing favourites have evolved alongside features like likes and saves.