Predilection, n.
Etymology: [Pref. pre- + L. dilectus, p. p. diligere to prefer: cf. F. prédilection. See Diligent.]
A previous liking; a prepossession of mind in favor of something; predisposition to choose or like; partiality. Burke.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for predilection; he lists it under fancy.
He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.