proffer
3 synonyms and 2 antonyms for proffer, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To offer something for someone to accept.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. verb
To offer something for someone to accept.
“He proffered his hand in a gesture of peace.”
Opposites
2. noun
Something offered; an offer or proposal.
“She turned down his proffer of help.”
How to use proffer
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
proffer an apology
proffer advice
proffer a hand
Fairly formal and often used in legal or literary contexts rather than everyday speech.
Etymology
From Old French poroffrir/proffrir, ultimately from Latin offerre, "to offer" — a distant cousin of the modern word "offer."
Full origin of proffer →Frequently asked questions
What does “proffer” mean?
The word “proffer” means to offer something for someone to accept. In plain terms, a slightly formal or old-fashioned way of saying "offer.".
How do you pronounce “proffer”?
“Proffer” is pronounced PRO-fuh (/ˈpɹɑfɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “proffer” in a sentence?
Here is “proffer” used in a sentence: “He proffered his hand in a gesture of peace.”
What part of speech is “proffer”?
Depending on how it is used, “proffer” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “proffer” come from?
The word “proffer” comes from Latin. From Old French poroffrir/proffrir, ultimately from Latin offerre, "to offer" — a distant cousin of the modern word "offer.".
How many meanings does “proffer” have?
“Proffer” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to offer something for someone to accept.
Related words
profer
prolate
