̷ ̷ˈkərsər, -ˈkə̄sə(r, -ˈkəisə(r, ˈprēˌ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin praecursor, from praecursus + -or
1.
a. : one that precedes and indicates the approach of another
headaches … were the precursors of breakdown and helpless invalidism — V.S.Pritchett
b. : one that precedes another in an office or process : predecessor , forerunner
Greek mathematics was the precursor to modern mathematics — Harry Lass
2. : a substance from which another substance is formed especially by natural processes
ethyl alcohol is the precursor of acetic acid in the formation of vinegar
— compare provitamin , zymogen