Safety was 'uppermost' in their minds. [=safety was the thing they were most concerned about]
the 'uppermost' [='topmost'] branches of the tree
(..) has been turned out of her. Does Big Brother exist? Of course. In the same way as me? You do not exist. You have not asked me the question that is uppermost in your mind, Winston. You know what is in Room . Everyone knows what's in Room . Now, fix your eyes on mine. (electrical current) (..)1984 1984