Pre*cede" (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Preceded; p. pr. & vb. n. Preceding.] [L. praecedere, praecessum; prae before + cedere to go, to be in motion: cf. F. pr'eceder. See Pre-, and Cede.]

1.

To go before in order of time; to occur first with relation to anything.

"Harm precedes not sin."

Milton.

2.

To go before in place, rank, or importance.

3.

To cause to be preceded; to preface; to introduce; -- used with by or with before the instrumental object.

[R.]

It is usual to precede hostilities by a public declaration. Kent.

 

© Webster 1913.