[pre.side] vi pre.sid.ed ; pre.sid.ing [L praesidere to guard, preside over, fr. prae- + sedere to sit--more at sit] (1608) 1: to exercise guidance, direction, or control
2. a: to occupy the place of authority: act as president, chairman, or moderator b: to occupy a position similar to that of a president or chairman
3: to occupy a position of featured instrumental performer--usu. used with at "presided at the organ" -- pre.sid.er n