Preeminent
adjective /priːˈem.ɪ.nənt/ — Surpassing all others in a field
Definition
Excelling all others; outstanding — the best in a particular field by a degree that is obvious and acknowledged.
Beyond the definition
The quality of being not just excellent but the standard by which others are measured.
Origin & history
From Latin 'praeminere' — 'prae' (before, in front) + 'eminere' (to stand out). The one who stands out in front of all others.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
She was preeminent in her field for two decades before anyone thought to challenge that assumption.
Preeminent is not a word that polishes its own reputation — it is conferred by others.
His preeminent position in the industry meant that his opinion shaped everything downstream of it.
How to use it
This entry uses an adjective. Follow the examples for the nouns it describes and its position in the sentence.
Choose “Preeminent” when the meaning fits your context: Excelling all others; outstanding — the best in a particular field by a degree that is obvious and acknowledged.
Synonyms
foremost, supreme, paramount, unrivalled, outstanding
Antonyms
mediocre, obscure, undistinguished
Related words
Questions about this word
What does "Preeminent" mean?
Preeminent is adjective meaning: Surpassing all others in a field. Excelling all others; outstanding — the best in a particular field by a degree that is obvious and acknowledged.
Where does the word "Preeminent" come from?
From Latin 'praeminere' — 'prae' (before, in front) + 'eminere' (to stand out). The one who stands out in front of all others.