precedency(n = noun.state)precedence, priority - status established in order of importance or urgency; "...its precedence as the world's leading manufacturer of pharmaceuticals"; "national independence takes priority over class struggle"
The act or state of preceding or going before in order of time; priority; as, one event has precedence of another. [1913 Webster]
The act or state of going or being before in rank or dignity, or the place of honor; right to a more honorable place; superior rank; as, barons have precedence of commoners. [1913 Webster]