The word "paramount" means something that is of the highest importance or significance. When something is described as paramount, it indicates that it takes precedence over other matters or things. For example, if safety is paramount, it means that safety is the most important consideration.
The word "paramount" originates from the Late Middle English term "paramount," which means "above" or "beyond." It is derived from the Anglo-French "paramont," meaning "above" or "upper," which comes from the combination of "para-" (from Old French meaning 'by, near') and "mont" (meaning 'mountain').