My soul chooseth . . . death rather than my life.
Job vii. 15.
3. On the other hand; to the contrary of what was said or suggested;
instead.
Was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse.
Mark v. 26.
4. Of two alternatives conceived of, this by preference to, or as more
likely than, the other; somewhat.
He sought throughout the world, but sought in vain, And nowhere
finding, rather feared her slain.
Dryden.