precedent
/pɹɪˈsiː.dənt/
noun
- 1
An act in the past which may be used as an example to help decide the outcome of similar instances in the future.
- 2
A decided case which is cited or used as an example to justify a judgment in a subsequent case.
- 3
An established habit or custom.
- 4
(with definite article) The aforementioned (thing).
- 5
The previous version.
- 6
A rough draught of a writing which precedes a finished copy.
verb
- 1
To provide precedents for.
- 2
To be a precedent for.
adjective
- 1
Happening or taking place earlier in time; previous or preceding.
- 2
Coming before in a particular order or arrangement; preceding, foregoing.
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