English Reference
adjective · noun

paramount

adj. · n.
US /ˈpɛɹəˌmaʊnt/ UK /pˈæɹəmˌaʊnt/ para·mount

  1. 01 C1 Advanced Formal

    adj.more important than anything else.

    adj.of the highest importance or priority; supreme.

    Simple

    In this business, the safety of our workers is paramount.

    In context

    The committee agreed that maintaining the integrity of the data was paramount, even if it meant delaying the publication of the final report.

  2. 02 C2 Proficiency FormalLiterary

    adj.having the highest position or power.

    adj.possessing supreme power or rank; pre-eminent in authority.

    Simple

    The king was the paramount ruler of all the lands in the north.

    In context

    The treaty recognized the sultan as the paramount authority over the coastal territories, effectively ending decades of local tribal disputes.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency FormalTechnical

    n.a person who has the highest power or rank in a group.

    n.a supreme ruler or superior; specifically used for certain high-ranking traditional leaders.

    Simple

    The Paramount met with the village elders to discuss the new laws.

    In context

    The installation of the new Paramount was attended by representatives from every province, signaling a period of renewed political stability.

    Usage

    Often used in the specific title 'Paramount Chief' in certain political or cultural contexts.

Usage paramount importance

A recent survey by Susquehanna Polling and Research found that 77% of likely voters believe that "conserving national forests and other roadless lands for current and future generations" is paramount.

Phys.org· 18 Aug 2026

In south Asian culture, marriage continues to be paramount, with women still largely bearing the brunt of this societal pressure.

The Guardian· 16 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated