primacy

noun

pri·​ma·​cy ˈprī-mə-sē 

1

: the state of being first (as in importance, order, or rank) : preeminence

the primacy of intellectual and esthetic over materialistic values

—T. R. McConnell

2

: the office, rank, or preeminence of an ecclesiastical primate

Synonyms

• distinction
• dominance
• eminence
• noteworthiness
• paramountcy
• preeminence
• preponderance
• preponderancy
• prepotency
• prestigiousness
• superiority
• supremacy
• transcendence

Examples of primacy in a Sentence

Civil law took primacy over religious law.

She has established primacy in her field of study.

Recent Examples on the Web

Using them publicly—at quarterly or annual meetings or on a good-news bulletin board—reinforces the primacy of these core values within your organization. —Verne Harnish, Forbes.com, 6 May 2025

Since there is a ton of debate about which of The Pitt’s supporting players will get primacy in the Emmys race, this early step forward for LaNasa is worth remembering. —Joe Reid, Vulture, 3 May 2025

Coogler was deeply moved by the clear primacy of Tatiana in Grant’s short life. —Jelani Cobb, New Yorker, 28 Apr. 2025

This humanitarian principle, as well as the primacy of the United States in medtech innovation and the restoration of American health, are at stake. —Scott Whitaker, Baltimore Sun, 17 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English primacie, borrowed from Anglo-French & Medieval Latin; Anglo-French, borrowed from Medieval Latin prīmātia "office of a primate," from prīmāt-, prīmās "leading bishop in an ecclesiastical province, primate" + Latin -ia -y entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

primacy

noun

pri·​ma·​cy ˈprī-mə-sē 

plural primacies

1

: the state of being first (as in time, place, or rank)

2

: the office or dignity of a bishop of the highest rank