precedev. t.[L. praecedere, praecessum; prae before + cedere to go, to be in motion: cf. F. prceder. See Pre-, and Cede.]1. To go before in order of time; to occur first with relation to anything.(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.()It is usual to precede hostilities by a public declaration. (Kent.)n.[Cf. F. prcdence. See Precede.]1. The act or state of preceding or going before in order of time; priority; as, one event has precedence of another.()2. The act or state of going or being before in rank or dignity, or the place of honor; right to a more honorable place; superior rank; as, barons have precedence of commoners.()Which of them [the different desires] has the precedency in determining the will to the next action? (Locke.)()