rather

Meanings

1. 1
   verb To prefer; to prefer to.
2. 2
   adjective Prior; earlier; former.
3. 3
   adverb More quickly; sooner, earlier.
4. 4
   adverb Used to specify a choice or preference; preferably, in preference to. (Now usually followed by than)
5. 5
   adverb Used to introduce a contradiction; on the contrary.
6. 6
   adverb Introducing a qualification or clarification; more precisely. (Now usually preceded by or.)
7. 7
   adverb (degree) Somewhat, fairly.
8. 8
   interjection An enthusiastic affirmation.