Dictionary

1paramount

adjective par·a·mount \ˈper-ə-ˌmant, ˈpa-rə-\

: very important : of highest rank or importance

Full Definition of PARAMOUNT

:  superior to all others :  supreme <a matter of paramount importance>
par·a·mount·cy \-ˌman(t)-sē\ noun
par·a·mount·ly \-ˌmant-lē\ adverb
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Origin of PARAMOUNT

Anglo-French paramont, from par by (from Latin per) + amunt above, from a to (from Latin ad) + munt mountain — more at for, at, mount
First Known Use: 1531

Synonym Discussion of PARAMOUNT

dominant, predominant, paramount, preponderant mean superior to all others in influence or importance. dominant applies to something that is uppermost because ruling or controlling <a dominant social class>. predominant applies to something that exerts, often temporarily, the most marked influence <a predominant emotion>. paramount implies supremacy in importance, rank, or jurisdiction <unemployment was the paramount issue in the campaign>. preponderant applies to an element or factor that outweighs all others in influence or effect <preponderant evidence in her favor>.

2paramount

noun

Definition of PARAMOUNT

:  a supreme ruler

First Known Use of PARAMOUNT

1616

Paramount

geographical name Par·a·mount \ˈpa-rə-ˌmant\

Definition of PARAMOUNT

city SW California N of Long Beach pop 54,098
PARAMOUNTCY Defined for Kids

paramount

adjective par·a·mount \ˈper-ə-ˌmant\

Definition of PARAMOUNT for Kids

:  highest in importance or greatness <The children's safety is paramount.>

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