prēˈemənən(t)s noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Late Latin praeeminentia, from praeeminent-, praeeminens preeminent + Latin -ia -y
1. : the quality or state of being preeminent : superiority in rank, position, or influence : surpassing excellence : dominant authority
more important than any legal sanction was … the personal preeminence he had won — John Buchan
corn moved forward … in the race with soybeans for preeminence as a chemurgic crop — Collier's Year Book
2. archaic : a particular distinction or honor or an outstanding quality