■ preposition & adverb
1》 at a higher level or rank than.
↘higher than a particular amount or rate.
2》 in preference to.
3》 [as adverb ] (in printed text) mentioned earlier.
Phrases
~ all ( else ) more so than anything else.
~ board legitimate and honest.
~ oneself conceited.
not be ~ be capable of stooping to (an unworthy act).
Origin
OE abufan , from a- 'on' + bufan (from bi 'by' + ufan '~').