seniority

noun

se·​nior·​i·​ty sēn-ˈyȯr-ə-tē 

-ˈyär-

1

: the quality or state of being senior : priority

2

: a privileged status attained by length of continuous service (as in a company)

Examples of seniority in a Sentence

Promotions are based on merit and seniority.

a teacher with less seniority

He has worked here longer than I have, so he has seniority over me.

Recent Examples on the Web

While Republicans have long used a two term-limit system, Democrats have eschewed that idea, in another bow to seniority. —Mike Lillis, The Hill, 12 May 2025

All current members will also receive raises retroactive to April 1, with respect to seniority and current salary. —Katie Campione, Deadline, 7 May 2025

Everyone, regardless of role or seniority, contributes to this process. —Sally Ragab, Forbes.com, 6 May 2025

Unlike 2024, the 2028 Democratic primary contest is expected to be crowded and wide open, with little deference for seniority or political experience. —Lisa Lerer, New York Times, 28 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for seniority

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

Kids Definition

seniority

noun

se·​nior·​i·​ty sēn-ˈyȯr-ət-ē 

-ˈyär-

1

: the quality or state of being senior

2

: a privileged position arrived at by length of service

Legal Definition

seniority

noun

se·​nior·​i·​ty sēn-ˈyȯr-ə-tē 

1

: the quality or state of being senior

2

: the senior status attained by length of continuous service (as in a company)

also : the length of such continuous service