precedent

Definition

An act in the past which may be used as an example to help decide the outcome of similar instances in the future.

Etymology

From Middle French, from Old French, from Latin praecēdēns, present participle of praecēdere (“to precede”); See precede.

Example Sentences

• "Examples for cases can but direct as precedents only."
• "A third argument may be derived from the precedent."
• "My Lord Melun, let this be copied out, I did suppose it should be on constraint ; And keep it safe for our remembrance : But , heaven be thank'd , it is but voluntary , Return the precedent to these lords again"