To proffer means to offer something to someone, usually extending it forward physically or presenting it for their consideration. When you proffer your hand for a handshake, you hold it out toward the other person. When a waiter proffers a tray of appetizers, they hold it toward guests so everyone can take one.

The word carries a sense of courtesy and formality. You might simply give your friend a pencil, but if you were meeting someone important, you might proffer your business card with both hands as a sign of respect. A knight in medieval times might proffer his sword to a king as a gesture of loyalty.

Proffer also describes offering ideas or suggestions, not just physical objects. A scientist might proffer a new theory to explain mysterious data. A diplomat might proffer a compromise to end a dispute between nations. In these cases, proffering suggests presenting something thoughtfully, as if you're holding it out for others to examine and consider rather than insisting they accept it.

The word has an old-fashioned, dignified quality to it. You probably wouldn't say, “I proffered my little brother some cookies,” but you might read about a character in a historical novel who proffers advice to the queen or proffers evidence at a trial.