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. conférer. See 1st Bear.] 1. To bring together for comparison; to compare.
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.
The closeness and compactness of the parts resting together doth much confer to the strength of the union.
Glanvill.