preside

verb

pre·​side pri-ˈzīd 

presided; presiding

intransitive verb

1

: to exercise guidance, direction, or control

2

a

: to occupy the place of authority : act as president, chairman, or moderator

b

: to occupy a position similar to that of a president or chairman

3

: to occupy a position of featured instrumental performer

—usually used with at

presided at the organ

presider noun

Synonyms

• boss
• captain
• command
• control
• govern
• rule
• sway [archaic]

Examples of preside in a Sentence

Court is now in session, Justice Raul Fernandez presiding.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Florida Legislature holds a one-day session after every election to swear in dozens of new members and crown two presiding officers for the next two years. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 20 Nov. 2024

In addition to serving as presiding officer, the vice president … formally presides over the receiving and counting of electoral ballots cast in presidential elections. —David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024

The company was set to appear before an NLRB administrative law judge on Sept. 23 but sought and obtained an injunction from Pittman, who presides in a Texas federal district court. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 24 Sep. 2024

However, presiding Judge has postponed his sentencing indefinitely following his election win. —Mandy Taheri, Newsweek, 30 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin praesidēre to guard, preside over, from prae- + sedēre to sit — more at sit

First Known Use

1608, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing preside

• preside over

Kids Definition

preside

verb

pre·​side pri-ˈzīd 

presided; presiding

1

: to be in the place of authority : act as president, chairperson, or moderator

preside over a meeting

2

: to be in charge

Legal Definition

preside

intransitive verb

pre·​side pri-ˈzīd 

presided; presiding

1

: to exercise guidance, direction, or control

2

: to occupy the place of authority : direct or regulate proceedings as chief officer