PRECEDENT

Definition

1. adjective preceding in time, order, or significance.
2. noun an example that is used to justify similar occurrences at a later time. — synonyms: case_in_point
3. noun (civil law) a law established by following earlier judicial decisions. — synonyms: case_law, common_law
4. noun a system of jurisprudence based on judicial precedents rather than statutory laws. — synonyms: common_law, case_law
5. noun a subject mentioned earlier (preceding in time).