Precedent
/ˈprɛsɪdənt/noun
An earlier event or action regarded as an example or guide for subsequent circumstances.
Did you know?The concept of 'precedent' has roots in ancient Roman law, where it was believed that past decisions held a mystical authority over future ones, influencing fate itself!
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*kʲed-
“To go, to yield.”
Latin
Latin
praecedentem
“Going before; leading.”
Old French
Old French
precedent
“That which comes before.”
14th Century
Middle English
precedent
“An instance that serves as an example or guide.”
Modern English
English
precedent
“A legal decision or form of proceeding serving as an authoritative rule.”