Con*fer" (?), v.t. [imp. & p. p. Conferred (#); p. pr. & vb. n. Conferring.] [L. conferre to bring together, contribute, consult; con- + ferre to bear: cf. F. conf'erer. See 1st Bear.]
1.
To bring together for comparison; to compare.
[Obs.]
If we confer these observations with others of the like nature, we may find cause to rectify the general opinion.
Boyle.
2.
To grant as a possession; to bestow.
The public marks of honor and reward
Conferred upon me.
Milton.
3.
To contribute; to conduce.
[Obs.]
The closeness and compactness of the parts resting together doth much confer to the strength of the union.
Glanvill.
© Webster 1913.
Con*fer", v. i.
To have discourse; to consult; to compare views; to deliberate.
Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered.
Acts xxv. 12.
You shall hear us confer of this.
Shak.
Syn. -- To counsel; advise; discourse; converse.
© Webster 1913.