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Definitions

leading

[lee-ding] / ˈli dɪŋ /
ADJECTIVE
chief, superior
Synonyms
STRONGEST
best dominant famous main noted outstanding popular preeminent principal prominent top well-known
STRONG
arch champion dominating first governing inaugural initial premier primary ruling
WEAK
foremost greatest headmost highest notorious number one stellar
Antonyms
STRONGEST
auxiliary extra inconspicuous inferior insignificant least low minor obscure ordinary secondary subordinate unimportant unknown unremarkable
STRONG
final last
WEAK
supplementary

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As demand for AI compute far outpaces supply, hyperscalers and leading AI labs have sought out neolabs like CoreWeave to bring capacity online quickly.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 10, 2026

Pakistan brokered a U.S.-Iran cease-fire, leading to talks in Islamabad, reflecting a reset in U.S.-Pakistan relations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

Many leading theories describe dark matter as being made of particles.

From Science Daily • Apr. 10, 2026

After previously pleading guilty partway through a trial, they appeared at Cardiff Crown Court for sentencing, with a judge describing them as "having leading roles in a sophisticated and successful" operation.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

I could practically see the big pirate X that marked the spot—his ill-gotten treasure lay buried right where his dreams were leading him.

From "The Detective's Assistant" by Kate Hannigan