primacy

noun

pri·​ma·​cy ˈprī-mə-sē 

1

: the state of being first (as in importance, order, or rank) : preeminence

… the primacy of intellectual and esthetic over materialistic values.

—T. R. McConnell

2

: the office, rank, or preeminence of an ecclesiastical primate

Synonyms of primacy

• dominance
• superiority
• distinction
• supremacy
• reputation

Examples of primacy in a Sentence

Civil law took primacy over religious law.

She has established primacy in her field of study.

Recent Examples on the Web

Though his practice additionally encompasses drawing, sculpture, photography, printmaking, and collage, Shearer acknowledged the primacy of painting in his oeuvre. — News Desk, Artforum, 24 Sep. 2026

Furthermore, the president and close advisers argue that the paramount concern is ensuring the United States wins the AI race against China, maintaining both economic primacy and national security. — Los Angeles Times, 18 Sep. 2026

This feels like the ultimate primacy problem that the Panthers have battled since 2024. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 15 Sep. 2026

There are places to disagree with Rovelli, such as his neglect of the primacy of experience in considering how science is even possible. — Adam Frank, NPR, 14 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English primacie, borrowed from Anglo-French & Medieval Latin; Anglo-French, borrowed from Medieval Latin prīmātia "office of a primate," from prīmāt-, prīmās "leading bishop in an ecclesiastical province, primate" + Latin -ia -y entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

primacy

noun

pri·​ma·​cy ˈprī-mə-sē 

plural primacies

1

: the state of being first (as in time, place, or rank)

2

: the office or dignity of a bishop of the highest rank