verb
proffer
PRO-fuh
Proffer (verb) means to offer something for someone to accept. Example: “He proffered his hand in a gesture of peace.”
verb
1
To offer something for someone to accept.
"He proffered his hand in a gesture of peace."
"The company proffered a modest settlement rather than go to trial."
noun
1
Something offered; an offer or proposal.
"She turned down his proffer of help."
How to use proffer
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA slightly formal or old-fashioned way of saying "offer."
When to use it
Fairly formal and often used in legal or literary contexts rather than everyday speech.
Common pairings
proffer an apology
proffer advice
proffer a hand
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Word forms
- Plural
- proffers
- Third person singular
- proffers
- Past tense
- proffered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He _____ his hand in a gesture of peace.
Etymology
From Old French poroffrir/proffrir, ultimately from Latin offerre, "to offer" — a distant cousin of the modern word "offer."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for proffer
See all rhymes for 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.
