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Definition of preeminence

preeminence

/pɹiːˈɛm.ɪ.nəns/
(UK: pre-eminence)
pre · em · i · nence
Adverb:preeminently
•
Plural:preeminences
•
Adjective:preeminent
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preeminence Lexical Profile

preeminence Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The state or quality of surpassing all others; superiority in rank, excellence, or distinction.

Example

"The university has maintained its global preeminence in biomedical research for over three decades."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for preeminence

• Nearby Words

preeclampsia
preelection
preemie
preeminence
preeminent
preeminently
preemployment

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French 'preeminence', from Late Latin 'praeeminentia', derived from the verb 'praeeminere' ('to surpass or project forward'), combining 'prae-' ('before') and 'eminere' ('to stand out').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Preeminence. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/preeminence
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