Definition

A person or thing that came before another in time or position, especially someone who held a job or role before someone else.

Example

The new CEO has big shoes to fill after the impressive work of her predecessor.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new manager at work?

Yeah, I did! I wonder how they will compare to their predecessor.

I hope they bring some fresh ideas to the team.

Me too! The last one had some great initiatives.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Predecessor → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "decessor" (from Latin "cedere", meaning to go or yield). The word refers to someone who has gone before in a position or role, hence a predecessor is one who precedes another.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who has 'gone before' ('pre-') in a role or position — that's what a predecessor is.

Visually Confused Words