Emily Dickinson Lexicon

chief (-er, -est), adj. [ME < L. caput, head.] (webplay: borne, distinguished, divine, hand, highest, quality, side).

1. Large amount; most in number.
2. Foremost; utmost; highest; principal; eminent; most important; much valued; having the most influence.
3. Phrase. “in chief”: ultimate; most intense; most eminent.