Precedence
/ˈprɛsɪdəns/noun
The condition of being considered more important than someone or something else.
Did you know?In medieval times, the concept of precedence was often linked to the positioning of celestial bodies, reflecting a hierarchy believed to influence earthly affairs.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
praecedentia
“the act of going before or leading the way.”
Late Latin
Late Latin
praecedens
“leading, going before.”
Old French
Old French
precedence
“priority of importance or order.”
Middle English
Middle English
precedence
“the state of being before or ahead in rank or importance.”
Modern English
English
precedence
“the condition of being considered more important or higher in rank.”