rather

adverb Etymology: Middle English, from Old English hrathor, comparative of hrathe quickly; akin to Old High German rado quickly, Old English hræd quick Date: before 12th century 1. with better reason or more propriety ; more properly <

this you should pity rather than despise — Shakespeare

> 2. more readily or willingly ; preferably <

I'd rather not go

> <

would rather read than watch television

> — often used interjectionally to express affirmation 3. more correctly speaking <

my father, or rather my stepfather

> 4. to the contrary ; instead <

was no better but rather grew worse — Mark 5:26 (Revised Standard Version)

> 5. in some degree ; somewhat <

it's rather warm

> — often used as a mild intensive <

spent rather a lot of money

>