[f. FAVOUR v. + -ED1.] In senses of the vb. Often used for: Favoured by Nature, fortune, or Providence; having unusual advantages or blessings.
Treaties often contain a clause providing that each of the contracting powers shall allow to the other all the advantage, with regard to customs duties, permission to trade, etc., that are granted to ‘the most favoured nation.’
1725. Pope, Odyss., VII. 273.
| Oft with some favour’d traveller they stray, | |
| And shine before him all the desert way. |
1758. Smollett, Hist. Eng. (1800), II. 245. The same privileges that France granted to the most favoured nation.
1800. W. Saunders, Min. Waters, 112. The site of Bristol Hotwell appears to be one of those choice and favoured spots that are peculiarly calculated for the pleasure and comfort of the invalid.
1805. Wordsw., The Waggoner, IV. 28.
| Her unsuspecting eye, perchance, | |
| With the rude shepherd’s favoured glance, | |
| Beholds the faeries in array. |
1848. Macaulay, Hist. Eng., I. 416. There were more favoured districts.
1891. Daily News, 6 May, 4/8. The favoured explanation of this action was [etc.].
