preeminence

[ pree-em-uh-nuh ns ]

/ priˈɛm ə nəns /

the state or character of being preeminent.

RELATED WORDS

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English word from Late Latin word praeēminentia. See preeminent, -ence

His third sister, Constantia, was distinguished by her preeminence of greatness and of misery.
The History of The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire|Edward Gibbon
In this play, too, I often sought unfair conquests, conquered myself meanwhile by vain desire of preeminence.
The Confessions of Saint Augustine|Saint Augustine
Her purity is so inestimable that I cannot say whether I derive more pride or sorrow from its preeminence.
Chivalry|James Branch Cabell
Nor are these advantages and this preeminence due to our merits and deserts.
Explanation of Catholic Morals|John H. Stapleton

As their soil became depleted, the hold of their state on preeminence in everything was weakening.
Green Spring Farm|Ross Netherton