v., -lect·ed, -lect·ing, -lects. v.tr.
To take as a choice from among several; pick out.
v.intr.
To make a choice or selection.
adj.
- Singled out in preference; chosen: a select few.
- Of special quality or value; choice: select peaches.
- Of or relating to a lean grade of beef.
- Careful or refined in making selections; discriminating.
- One that is chosen in preference to others or because of special value.
- (used with a pl. verb) Chosen or preferred items or people considered as a group. Often used with the.
[Latin sēligere, sēlēct- : sē-, apart + legere, to choose.]
selectable se·lec'ta·ble adj.selectness se·lect'ness n.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
