adj. & adv.
--adj.
1. (often foll. by to) coming before in time or order.
2 done or acting hastily.
--adv. (foll. by to) before (had called previous to writing).
Phrases and idioms:
previous question Parl. a motion concerning the vote on a main question.
Derivatives:
previously adv. previousness n.
Etymology: L praevius (as PRAE-, via way)