foremost
UK: ˈfɔːməʊst | US: ˈfɔːrmoʊst
adj. most prominent in rank, importance, or position
adj. situated at the front; first in place
The word "foremost" combines "fore" (from Old English fore, meaning "before" or "front") and "most" (the superlative suffix from Old English mǣst). Originally, it literally meant "first in position," but over time, it gained a figurative sense of "highest in rank or importance." The logic is straightforward: what is physically at the front often symbolizes priority or prominence.
She is the foremost expert in renewable energy research.
The captain stood foremost on the deck, scanning the horizon.
Safety should be foremost in everyone's mind during the experiment.
His foremost concern was the well-being of his family.
The artist's foremost works are displayed in the national gallery.