Meaning & use

conferred

verb·Academic

Last updated

Formally granted or bestowed something, such as a degree, title, or honor; or discussed something with others to reach a decision.

See it in a sentence

The university conferred an honorary degree on the retiring professor.

The lawyers conferred privately before returning to the courtroom.

A note on using this word

Has two distinct senses depending on context: 'to grant' (confer an award) versus 'to discuss' (confer with colleagues) — the surrounding words usually make clear which is meant.

Words with a similar meaning

bestowedconsulted

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

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