Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Most prominent in rank, importance, or position: Being the leading or most significant figure in a particular field or context.
   • Situated at the front: Located in the position closest to the front or forward part.

2. Adverb:

   • Before anything else; first in order: Used to indicate that something is the initial priority or step.
   • In the most forward position: In a manner that is most prominent or ahead of others.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • She is considered the foremost expert in renewable energy technologies.
  • The captain's cabin was in the foremost part of the ship.
• Adverb:
  • Foremost, we must ensure everyone's safety before proceeding.
  • He stepped foremost into the spotlight to accept the award.

Advanced Usage

• "First and foremost": An idiomatic phrase used to emphasize that something is the primary or most important point.
  • First and foremost, I would like to thank my family for their support.
• Used to denote preeminence in a non-spatial, figurative sense.
  • His foremost concern was the welfare of his employees.

Variants and Related Words

• Fore (adj, n): Situated at the front; the front part. (e.g., )
• Forefront (n): The leading or most important position or place. (e.g., )

Synonyms

• Primary: Of chief importance; principal.
• Leading: Most important or in first place.
• Premier: First in importance, order, or position.

Antonyms

• Hindmost: Furthest to the rear; last.
• Least important: Of the smallest importance or significance.
• Last: Coming after all others in time or order.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Head foremost": Another way to say "headfirst," with great haste or impulsiveness.
  • He dove head foremost into the pool. (Note: This is a related phrase using 'foremost' as part of a compound adverb, not the target word in isolation.)

Adjective

1. situated closest to the bow
   • the foremost compartment of the ship
2. preceding all others in spatial position
   • the foremost compartment of the ship
3. ranking above all others
   • was first in her class
   • the foremost figure among marine artists
   • the top graduate

Adverb

1. before anything else
   • first we must consider the garter snake
2. prominently forward
   • he put his best foot foremost