Synonyms of predecessor

predecessor

noun

ˈpre-də-ˌse-sər 

as in forerunner

something belonging to an earlier time from which something else was later developed

the once-ubiquitous typewriter was the predecessor of today's electronic keyboard

Synonyms & Similar Words

• forerunner
• ancestor
• precursor
• prototype
• original
• antecedent
• granddaddy
• archetype
• daddy
• originator
• model
• mother
• foregoer
• father
• sire

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• descendant
• derivative
• son
• offshoot
• daughter
• outgrowth
• by-product
• spin-off

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of predecessor

Cook’s predecessor, Steve Jobs, was a rock-star visionary who sold the world on the deeply personal and even spiritual nature of tech creations. — Andrew R. Chow, Time, 15 Oct. 2026

The announcement comes amid a public dispute between Leikauf and his predecessor, former sheriff John D’Agostini, who has called for Leikauf’s resignation in local newspapers and on social media. — Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 14 Oct. 2026

The largest Alexa Tablet 12 Pro costs $550, compared to $155 for its predecessor, the Fire HD10. — Kif Leswing,annie Palmer,jordan Novet, CNBC, 14 Oct. 2026

About La La Land Like its predecessor, La La Land was launched with a social mission at its core. — Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 14 Oct. 2026