priority

noun

pri·​or·​i·​ty prī-ˈȯr-ə-tē How to pronounce priority (audio)
-ˈär-
plural priorities
1
a(1)
: the quality or state of being prior
(2)
: precedence in date or position of publication
used of taxa
b(1)
: superiority in rank, position, or privilege
(2)
: legal precedence in exercise of rights over the same subject matter
2
: a preferential rating
especially : one that allocates rights to goods and services usually in limited supply
that project has top priority
3
: something given or meriting attention before competing alternatives

Examples of priority in a Sentence

Reorganizing the sales force will be a top priority for the new president. Getting the work done on time is a priority for me. She decided to go to the party instead of studying? Where are her priorities? I know you want to buy a new stereo, but right now, saving for college has to take priority.
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
At the time, a source told PEOPLE that her kids and Affleck's kids were the couple's top priority. Hannah Sacks, People.com, 4 Nov. 2024 These challenges underscore the complexity of building consensus among nearly 200 countries, each with distinct priorities and environmental issues. David Carlin, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 Jackson's campaign lists priorities such as the fentanyl crisis, building defenses against artificial intelligence scams and protecting seniors from fraud. Alexandria Sands, Axios, 4 Nov. 2024 For example, priority 1 wells are identified as those leaking and posing significant environmental, safety, or economic threats. David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for priority 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)

Time Traveler
The first known use of priority was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near priority

Cite this Entry

“Priority.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/priority. Accessed 12 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

priority

noun
pri·​or·​i·​ty prī-ˈȯr-ət-ē How to pronounce priority (audio)
-ˈär-
plural priorities
1
: the quality or state of coming before another in time or importance
2
: a condition of being given attention before others
this project has top priority

Legal Definition

priority

1 of 2 noun
pri·​or·​i·​ty prī-ˈȯr-ə-tē How to pronounce priority (audio)
plural priorities
: precedence in exercise of rights in the same subject matter
secured interests have priority over unsecured ones

priority

2 of 2 adjective
1
: having precedence over another in the exercise of rights in the same subject matter
a priority creditor
a priority claim
2
: of or relating to priority
a priority contest

More from Merriam-Webster on priority

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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