noun, plural -ties for 2–4.| 1. | the state or quality of being earlier in time, occurrence, etc. |
| 2. | the right to precede others in order, rank, privilege, etc.; precedence. |
| 3. | the right to take precedence in obtaining certain supplies, services, facilities, etc., esp. during a shortage. |
| 4. | something given special attention. |
| 5. | highest or higher in importance, rank, privilege, etc.: a priority task. |
priority