Definition

To come before something in time or order.

Example

The invention of the telephone anteceded the rise of the internet.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you know that some events antecede others in history?

Really? I didn't realize that was a common pattern.

Yeah, it’s interesting how certain moments lead to others.

I guess understanding that helps make sense of timelines.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Antecede is formed from "ante-" (meaning before) and "cedere" (meaning to go or yield). The word describes something that goes before or precedes something else in time or order.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'goes before' ('ante-') another thing — that's why antecede means to come before.

Visually Confused Words