— paramountcy , n. — paramountly , adv.
/par"euh mownt'/ , adj.
1. chief in importance or impact; supreme; preeminent: a point of paramount significance.
2. above others in rank or authority; superior in power or jurisdiction.
n.
3. a supreme ruler; overlord.
[ 1525-35; paramont above, equiv. to par PER- + a mont ad montem to the mountain, hence, in OF: upward, above; see AD-, MOUNT 2 ]
Syn. 1. See dominant .
Ant. 1. unimportant.