Precedent Definition & Meaning
precedent
- adjective
- preceding in time, order, or significance
- noun
- an example that is used to justify similar occurrences at a later time
- (civil law) a law established by following earlier judicial decisions
- a system of jurisprudence based on judicial precedents rather than statutory laws; "common law originated in the unwritten laws of England and was later applied in the United States"
- a subject mentioned earlier (preceding in time)
"Precedent" in song lyrics
See how precedent is used in real songs:
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"as they whistle past your tenament, my president set the precedent"
Virtuoso f/ Akrobatik — Military Intelligence -
"'But, ah, who ever shunn'd by precedent"
William Shakespeare — A Lover's Complaint -
"persuasive case citation in legal brief and legal precedent"
AOL — AOL
Words that rhyme with precedent
Usage tips for "precedent"
Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "precedent" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for precedent to find words that pair well.