[ 'prɛt(ə)rɪt ]
( US also preterit ) Grammar
■ adjective expressing a past action or state.
■ noun a simple past tense or form.
Origin
ME (in the sense 'bygone, former'): from L. praeteritus , past participle of praeterire 'pass, go by', from praeter 'past, beyond' + ire 'go'.