adv.
-
(would rather)
indicating one's preference in a particular matter.
- to a certain or significant extent or degree.
- on the contrary.
- more precisely.
- instead of; as opposed to.
exclam.
Brit. dated expressing emphatic affirmation or acceptance.
Phrase
- had rather
literary or archaic would rather.
Etymology
OE hrathor ‘earlier, sooner’, compar. of hræthe ‘without delay’, from hræth ‘prompt’ (see rathe).