Premier

Definition

Premier is a term that can refer to the foremost or leading position in its category or to the head of government in many nations.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /prɪˈmɪər/
• Respelling: prih-MEER (with "prih" as in "prism," and "MEER" as in "peer")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɛmiə/
• Respelling: PREM-ee-ə (with "PREM" as in "premise," "ee" as in "see," and "ə" as a soft ending)

In American English, "premier" is pronounced with the primary stress on the second syllable, "MEER." In British English, the stress is typically on the first syllable, "PREM," with a more fluid pronunciation. The distinction highlights slight differences in emphasis and syllable stress between the two dialects.

Etymology

The term "premier" is derived from the Old French word "premier," meaning "first," which comes from the Latin word "primarius," signifying "of the first rank, chief."

Derivatives

• Premiership
• Premierly
• Premier-class
• Premiereship
• Premieral

Synonyms

• Prime
• Chief
• Foremost

Antonyms

• Last
• Secondary
• Inferior

Usage

"Premier" is often utilized in both political and general contexts. In many Commonwealth countries, a "premier" refers to the head of a provincial or territorial government. Outside of politics, it can signify the best or most important thing in a series or category.

Related Terms

• Prime Minister
• Head of State
• Governor
• Chief Executive
• First

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The head of the cabinet in several national and subnational governments in parliamentary systems; equivalent to the post of prime minister in many realms.
• Example: "The premier of Quebec announced a new policy today."

• A first performance or exhibition, especially of a play, film, or musical work.
• Example: "The movie had its premier in Los Angeles."

Adjective

• Foremost, leading, or most important.
• Example: "This is a premier brand of coffee."

• First in time, order, or sequence.
• Example: "The premier issue of the magazine was released in January."