above all

adverb

: before every other consideration : especially

Examples of above all in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And above all, the district must not take on any debt for operating costs, even if pushed to by outside and routinely myopic political forces. Joe Ferguson, Chicago Tribune, 15 June 2026 In other words, the Iranians have achieved their key strategic aims—regime survival above all—while the Americans have achieved none of their own. Tom Nichols, The Atlantic, 15 June 2026 Identify the two or three touchpoints that most directly impact client experience and protect those above all else. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026 Ganesh was thrilled to show a deeper, different side to Mohan, who is always depicted as being a very empathetic doctor, prioritizing her patients above all else. Emily Longeretta, Variety, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for above all

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Above all.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/above%20all. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on above all

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster