predecessor

noun

pre·​de·​ces·​sor ˈpre-də-ˌse-sər How to pronounce predecessor (audio) ˈprē- How to pronounce predecessor (audio)
ˌpre-də-ˈse-, 
ˌprē-
Synonyms of predecessor
1
: one that precedes
especially : a person who has previously occupied a position or office to which another has succeeded
2
archaic : ancestor

Synonyms of predecessor

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Examples of predecessor in a Sentence

Today's computers are much faster than their predecessors were. the once-ubiquitous typewriter was the predecessor of today's electronic keyboard
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Despite distancing herself from her Democratic predecessor, Klobuchar faced attacks from Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, who ran in the Republican primary, arguing that her leadership would be tantamount to giving Walz another term. — Rena Rowe, The Washington Examiner, 12 Aug. 2026 While official explanations have been absent regarding Aubrey’s departure and the circumstances that preceded it, its mysterious nature evokes the similarly abrupt exit of his predecessor, Shivaun Nurre, three years ago. — Robert Salonga, Mercury News, 11 Aug. 2026 Insiders note that O’Leary, who became president and CEO of Cinema United in 2023, was appointed in part because he was viewed as less fiery than his predecessor, John Fithian, an outspoken advocate for theater owners. — Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 11 Aug. 2026 One report indicates that several of the devices are installed in Oxon Hill, Maryland, and the company’s predecessor technology appears on an official New York state contract price list. — Nicole M. Bennett, The Conversation, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for predecessor

Word History

Etymology

Middle English predecessour, from Anglo-French predecessur, from Late Latin praedecessor, from Latin prae- pre- + decessor retiring governor, from decedere to depart, retire from office — more at decease

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of predecessor was in the 14th century

Rhymes for predecessor

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Browse Nearby Words

predecease
predecessor
predecide
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Cite this Entry

“Predecessor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/predecessor. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

predecessor

noun
pre·​de·​ces·​sor ˈpred-ə-ˌses-ər How to pronounce predecessor (audio) ˈprēd- How to pronounce predecessor (audio)
: one that precedes
especially : a person who has held a position or office before another
Etymology

Middle English predecessour "predecessor," from early French predecesseur (same meaning), from Latin praedecessor "one that goes before," from prae- "before, pre-," and decessor "retiring governor," from decedere "to depart," from de- "from" and cedere "to go, go away" — related to ancestor, concede

More from Merriam-Webster on predecessor

Nglish: Translation of predecessor for Spanish Speakers

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