What is the meaning of favorite?

noun

• Something regarded with special favor or liking.
  • usage: "that book is one of my favorites"
  • synonyms: favourite
• A special loved one.
  • synonyms: darling, favourite, pet, dearie, deary, ducky
• A competitor thought likely to win.
  • synonyms: front-runner, favourite

adjective

• Appealing to the general public.
  • usage: "a favorite tourist attraction"
  • synonyms: favourite
• Preferred above all others and treated with partiality.
  • usage: "the favored child"
  • synonyms: favored, favourite, best-loved, pet, preferred, preferent