DictionaryimportantGreat significance
adjective

important

im-PORT-nt/ɪmˈpɔːrtnt/

Having great significance, value, or influence.

The keystone is important to the arch's stability; removing it causes collapse.

A paired view demonstrates the importance of a keystone: a complete stone arch stands securely, while the same arch collapses when its central wedge-shaped stone is removed.
Etymology

“Carry into” formed a verb meaning “bring in,” which developed the sense “be significant.” Its participial adjective described something bearing weight or consequence, the basis of today's meaning.

In context

Vitra Design Museum5:45
the photography and the media communication of a building plays a very important role. And that had an influence on how buildings were designed.
Architecture Tour: The Vitra Design Museum building by Frank Gehry

More examples

  • She has an important appointment.
  • This is the most important step.
  • Your opinion is important to us.

Forms

important · more important · most important

importance noun — the quality of having significant value

Similar words

significant
Emphasizes meaningful effect or consequence.