precedent
//ˈprɛsɪdənt//
Noun
precedentSingular
precedentsPlural
1
An earlier event, action, or decision that serves as an example or guide for similar circumstances in the future.
This court ruling will set a precedent for future cases.
2
A legal decision or case that establishes a principle or rule to be followed in subsequent similar cases.
The lawyer cited a precedent from a similar case to support her argument.
Adjective
precedentCanonical form
1
Preceding in time, order, or importance.
The precedent chapter explains the basic concepts.