priority

noun

pri·​or·​i·​ty prī-ˈȯr-ə-tē 

-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

Synonyms of priority

• precedence

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

Guest safety remains our highest priority. —Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 27 Feb. 2026

Running statewide, Bianco’s priorities include toughening public safety laws and addressing homelessness through law enforcement involvement. —David Mark, The Washington Examiner, 27 Feb. 2026

In the run-up to the midterm elections later this year, Kennedy appears to be shifting his focus from undermining the childhood-vaccine schedule—his least popular priority, according to one recent poll—to battling the food industry, which enjoys broad support. —Tom Bartlett, The Atlantic, 26 Feb. 2026

The Ravens appear prepared to re-sign Linderbaum anyway, but the Giants’ real priorities on the line should be at right guard, right tackle and swing tackle. —Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 26 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1b(1)

Phrases Containing priority

• give priority
• have priority
• take priority

Rhymes for priority

• authority
• majority
• minority
• seniority
• sonority
• sorority
• exteriority
• inferiority
• superiority

Kids Definition

priority

noun

pri·​or·​i·​ty prī-ˈȯr-ət-ē 

-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 

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