priority

American  

[prahy-awr-i-tee, -or-] / praɪˈɔr ɪ ti, -ˈɒr- /

noun

plural

priorities

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.

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adjective

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

   a priority task.

priority British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• nonpriority adjective

Etymology

Origin of priority

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

Example Sentences

"They were really high priority science for us, so the fact that they saw four or five was just outstanding."

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

Golfers should give priority to physical foundation, mobility and movement control over just swing speed, and respect recovery to avoid overuse injuries.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

A spokesperson for the operator said the safety, wellbeing and care of residents "is always our absolute priority" and it works "closely to uphold high standards of care."

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

Bass has staked much of her reelection campaign on her handling of the homelessness crisis, which she made a top priority as soon as she took office.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

He counseled others to take vacations but enjoyed few himself, even if that created the impression that his family was not his highest priority.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French

Related Words

• arrangement
• preference