v.tr. 1 a come or go before in time, order, importance, etc. (preceding generations; the preceding paragraph; sons of barons precede baronets). b walk etc. in front of (preceded by our guide). 2 (foll. by by) cause to be preceded (must precede this measure by milder ones).
[ OF preceder f. L praecedere (as PRAE-, cedere cess- go) ]