precedent

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   An act in the past which may be used as an example to help decide the outcome of similar instances in the future.

   Examples for cases can but direct as precedents only.

2. 2
   noun

   The aforementioned (thing).

   A third argument may be derived from the precedent.

3. 3
   noun

   A rough draught of a writing which precedes a finished copy.

   My Lord Melun, let this be copied out, I did suppose it should be on constraint ; And keep it safe for our remembrance : But , heaven be thank'd , it is but voluntary , Return the precedent to these lords again

4. 4
   adj

   Coming before in a particular order or arrangement; preceding, foregoing.

   In the precedent section mention was made, amongst other pleasant objects, of this comeliness and beauty which proceeds from women […].

5. 5
   adj

   preceding in time, order, or significance

6. 6
   noun

   an example that is used to justify similar occurrences at a later time

7. 7
   noun

   (civil law) a law established by following earlier judicial decisions

8. 8
   noun

   a subject mentioned earlier (preceding in time)

Etymology

From Middle French, from Old French, from Latin praecēdēns, present participle of praecēdere (“to precede”); See precede.