The term sexual preference encompasses heterosexual and homosexual desire. It was used in the late 20th century by gay rights advocates who sought to promote the view that each person should have the right to seek out the partner they prefer, whether of the opposite sex or the same sex.
After using the term for a short period of time, gay rights advocates generally began using the term sexual orientation instead, as it helped to promote the view that sexual desire was a not a matter of "preference" but inherent and unchangeable (i.e. homosexuality is something one is born with).
For further details see sexual orientation.
