preeminence

Or pre-em·i·nence

[pree-em-uh-nuhns]

noun

1. the state or character of being preeminent.

Word History and Origins

Origin of preeminence¹

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English word from Late Latin word praeēminentia. See preeminent, -ence

Example Sentences

To dress up is to project power, possibility and preeminence.

From Los Angeles Times

American democracy is being dismantled by fascists and Trump is trashing a world order that has ensured American preeminence and prosperity for the past 80 years.

From Salon

But a drastic cut to NIH funding under the Trump administration set to take place Monday has caused alarm among UC leaders and many medical researchers, who said the move would “jeopardize America’s research preeminence.”

From Los Angeles Times

Harris’ speech treated Trump as a menace to American national security and global preeminence.

From Salon

It fails to proclaim and claim credit for America’s economic dynamism and global preeminence, which have deepened under the Biden-Harris administration.

From Salon

Related Words

• ascendancy 
• domination 
• predominance 
• supremacy 

When To Use

What does preeminence mean?

Preeminence is the state of being preeminent—extremely distinguished, outstanding, or superior to all (or the majority of) others.The word eminent means high in station, rank, or reputation, and its noun form, eminence, refers to a position of superiority, high rank or status, or fame.Someone who is considered eminent is usually both well-known and well-respected, especially within a particular field. Preeminence is the state of being extremely eminent—famed and respected above all or most.Eminence is often used in reference to scholars who are viewed as experts in their field, with preeminence being the level of the most distinguished or respected authorities (or authority).Sometimes, preeminence means dominance, especially when it’s used in the context of a country’s control or influence over a region.Preeminence is sometimes spelled with a hyphen (pre-eminence), perhaps to make it easier to read.Example: He has achieved preeminence as the foremost expert on this topic.