priority

[ prahy-awr-i-tee, -or- ]

noun

, plural pri·or·i·ties

1. the state or quality of being earlier in time, occurrence, etc.
2. the right to precede others in order, rank, privilege, etc.; precedence.
3. the right to take precedence in obtaining certain supplies, services, facilities, etc., especially during a shortage.
4. something given special attention.

adjective

1. highest or higher in importance, rank, privilege, etc.:

   a priority task.

priority

/ praɪˈɒrɪtɪ /

noun

1. the condition of being prior; antecedence; precedence
2. the right of precedence over others
3. something given specified attention

   my first priority

Other Words From

• nonpri·ori·ty adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of priority¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Middle French priorite, from Medieval Latin priōritās; prior ¹, -ity

Example Sentences

"We fixed the specific issue that caused the problem last year as our first priority and it cannot reoccur."

From BBC

He framed his highest priority — the preservation of the white race — in environmental, even ecological, terms.

From Salon

In a statement the school apologised "for any inconvenience caused by this external issue, but safeguarding our children is our number one priority".

From BBC

Translating “Say Nothing” to the small screen in a way that was both authentic and accessible to viewers who “can’t find Northern Ireland on a map” was a priority, said Keefe, who served as an executive producer on the series.

From Los Angeles Times

When asked what their priority would be for a second Trump term, no one cited tariffs or tax cuts.

From Salon

Related Words

• arrangement
• preference