- predecessor
- late 14c., "one who has held an office or position before the present holder," from L.L. prędecessorem (nom. prędecessor), c.420, from L. prę "before" + decessor "retiring official," from decess-, pp. stem of decedere "go away," also "die" (see decease). Meaning "ancestor, forefather" is recorded from c.1400.