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Definition of precede

precede

/prɪˈsiːd/
pre · cede
Adjective:preceding
•
Past Simple:preceded
•
Past Participle:preceded
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Present Participle:preceding
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precede Lexical Profile

precede Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To come before something in time, order, or position.

Example

"A brief reception will precede the formal dinner this evening."

2

To go in front of or ahead of someone.

Example

"She gestured politely for the guests to precede her into the dining hall."

3

To preface or introduce something with a preliminary remark or action.

Example

"The professor decided to precede his lecture with a short announcement about the upcoming exam."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for precede
Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

Often confused with 'proceed'; 'precede' means to come before in time or order, whereas 'proceed' means to go forward or carry on.

• Rhymes for precede

• Nearby Words

precast
precaution
precautionary
precede
precedence
precedent
precedented

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English preceden, borrowed from Old French preceder, from Latin praecedere ('to go before'), composed of prae- ('before') and cedere ('to go').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Precede. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/precede
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