Emily Dickinson Lexicon

FA'VOR-ITE, n. [Fr. favori, favorite; It. favorito.]

A person or thing regarded with peculiar favor, preference and affection; one greatly beloved. Select favorites from among the discrete and virtuous. Princes are often misled, and sometimes ruined by favorites. Gaveston and the Spensers, the favorites of Edward II, fell a sacrifice to public indignation.