precedence

noun

pre·​ce·​dence ˈpre-sə-dən(t)s  pri-ˈsē-dᵊn(t)s 

1

a

: priority of importance

your safety takes precedence

b

: the right to superior honor on a ceremonial or formal occasion

c

: the order of ceremonial or formal preference

2

a

: the fact of coming or occurring earlier in time

b

obsolete : antecedent

Synonyms

• priority
• right-of-way

Examples of precedence in a Sentence

Americans, Adams now believed, were as driven by the passions for wealth and precedence as any people in history. Ambition, avarice, and resentment, not virtue and benevolence, were the stuff of American society. —Gordon S. Wood, Revolutionary Characters, 2006

So, too, did most accept that all economies are characterized by struggles for power and precedence among men and institutions run by men; in other words, that all economies are fundamentally political in nature. —Barry C. Lynn, Harper's, July 2006

Jefferson abolished precedence and placement at White House dinners to emphasize that all guests were equal, but his system—he called it "pell-mell"—was abandoned, and we have guests of honor and use place cards today. —Naomi Bliven, New York Times Book Review, 12 Sept. 1999

his merchandise order takes precedence because we received it first

Recent Examples on the Web

However, with Saturn retrograde in your sign, themes of responsibility and accountability take precedence, particularly when considering your self-expression and personal growth. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 4 Nov. 2024

The need to use fashion as shorthand for values can lead to a rise in minimalist fashion where practicality takes precedence over trendiness. —Richard Kestenbaum, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024

If both Nebraska initiatives pass, the one that receives more votes would take precedence. —Nathaniel Rakich, ABC News, 4 Nov. 2024

For many local officials, achieving industrial advancement and ensuring supply chain security take precedence over stimulating consumer spending. —Zongyuan Zoe Liu, Foreign Affairs, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

see precede

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Phrases Containing precedence

• give precedence to
• have/take precedence over

Kids Definition

precedence

noun

pre·​ce·​dence ˈpres-əd-ən(t)s  pri-ˈsēd-ᵊn(t)s 

1

: the act or fact of preceding (as in time)

2

: consideration based on order of importance : priority

your safety takes precedence