adj.
1.preceding in time, order, or significance precedent n.
1.an example that is used to justify similar occurrences at a later time
2.(civil law) a law established by following earlier judicial decisions
3.a system of jurisprudence based on judicial precedents rather than statutory laws
4.a subject mentioned earlier (preceding in time)
Idiom of the Day
have (something) on the ball
to be smart or clever or skilled
The woman has a lot on the ball. She should do well in her new job.