option

option [äp′shən]

n.

[Fr < L optio < optare, to wish, desire, ult. < IE * op-, to choose, prefer]

1. the act of choosing; choice

2. the power, right, or liberty of choosing

3.

a) something that is or can be chosen; choice

b) an optional item that can be purchased to supplement or enhance another consumer item

4. a contract by which one person, company, etc. gives another, for a consideration, the right to buy, sell, or lease something, sign or renew a contract, etc. at a specified price and within a specified time

5. Football an offensive play in which the ball carrier decides whether to hand off, run with, lateral, or pass the football

vt.

☆ 1. Sports to transfer (a player) to a minor league with the option of recalling him

2. to grant or acquire by means of an OPTION (n. 4); specif., to buy or sell (rights) to (a book, film, etc.) in this way

SYN.- CHOICE