Definitions
1.nounPrior claim (on payment, or on purchasing something); the first rights to obtain a particular payment or product.
2.nounThe fact of being pushed or advanced to a more favourable situation; furtherance, promotion (of a candidate, action, undertaking etc.).
3.nounAdvancement to a higher position or office; promotion.
4.nounA position (especially in the Church of England) that provides profit or prestige.
5.nounThe fact of preferring something; preference.