Prefer

·vt To go before, or be before, in estimation; to Outrank; to Surpass.

II. Prefer ·vt To set above or before something else in estimation, favor, or liking; to regard or honor before another; to hold in greater favor; to choose rather;

— often followed by to, before, or above.

III. Prefer ·vt To cause to go before; hence, to advance before others, as to an office or dignity; to Raise; to Exalt; to Promote; as, to prefer an officer to the rank of general.

IV. Prefer ·vt To carry or bring (something) forward, or before one; hence, to bring for consideration, acceptance, judgment, ·etc.; to Offer; to Present; to Proffer; to Address;

— said especially of a request, prayer, petition, claim, charge, ·etc.