verb / noun

proffer

PRAH-fer/ˈprɑːfər/

An offer for acceptance, or the act of making one.

The woman proffers a small plate of biscuits to the man.

A woman extends a small plate of biscuits toward a man, who looks at the offered food and begins to reach for one.

Etymology

“Forth” added to “offer” gives the image of putting something forward. Early uses included handing something over, leading naturally to presenting an offer or proposal for acceptance.

In context

City of Durham NC 74:00

anyone who liked to proffer the motion or make a motion

Historic Preservation Commission- July 7, 2020

More examples

She proffered an explanation for the delay.
They declined his proffer of financial assistance.
Her proffer of help comes at just the right time.

Forms

proffer · proffers · proffered · proffering

Similar words

offer: Offer is more common and less formal than proffer.
tender: Tender usually concerns formally submitting payment, a resignation, or documents.