Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Preferential \Pref`er*en"tial\, a.
   Giving, indicating, or having a preference or precedence; as,
   a preferential claim; preferential shares.

Source : WordNet®

preferential
     adj : manifesting partiality; "a discriminatory tax";
           "preferential tariff rates"; "preferential treatment";
           "a preferential shop gives priority or advantage to
           union members in hiring or promoting" [syn: {discriminatory}]