predecessor

noun

pre·​de·​ces·​sor ˈpre-də-ˌse-sər How to pronounce predecessor (audio)
ˈprē-;
ˌpre-də-ˈse-,
ˌprē- How to pronounce predecessor (audio)
1
: one that precedes
especially : a person who has previously occupied a position or office to which another has succeeded
2
archaic : ancestor

Examples of predecessor in a Sentence

Today's computers are much faster than their predecessors were. the once-ubiquitous typewriter was the predecessor of today's electronic keyboard
Recent Examples on the Web With more cushioning than its predecessor, the new sneaker offers stability and support on casual runs. September 23, 2024 All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. Rachel Chang, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Sep. 2024 Unlike its predecessor, the Wireless Facial Humidifier doesn't require a USB power cord to run and only takes four hours to fully charge. Sarah Han, Allure, 23 Sep. 2024 Meanwhile, his predecessor at ABC, Karey Burke, who had been very keen on exploring a Modern Family spinoff, took the reins of Modern Family studio 20th TV. Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 22 Sep. 2024 New British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to make his first showing at the General Assembly after his predecessor, Rishi Sunak, skipped last year’s meeting. Richard Roth, CNN, 21 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for predecessor 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'predecessor.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English predecessour, from Anglo-French predecessur, from Late Latin praedecessor, from Latin prae- pre- + decessor retiring governor, from decedere to depart, retire from office — more at decease

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of predecessor was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near predecessor

Cite this Entry

“Predecessor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/predecessor. Accessed 6 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

predecessor

noun
pre·​de·​ces·​sor ˈpred-ə-ˌses-ər How to pronounce predecessor (audio) ˈprēd- How to pronounce predecessor (audio)
: one that precedes
especially : a person who has held a position or office before another
Etymology

Middle English predecessour "predecessor," from early French predecesseur (same meaning), from Latin praedecessor "one that goes before," from prae- "before, pre-," and decessor "retiring governor," from decedere "to depart," from de- "from" and cedere "to go, go away" — related to ancestor, concede

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