Meaning & Definition
verb
to give up, especially by formal agreement.
The country decided to cede territory to its neighbor to ensure peace.
to yield or grant (rights or privileges) formally.
The company agreed to cede control of the project to the new investors.
to surrender or relinquish possession or control.
After years of negotiation, the leader had no choice but to cede his authority to the council.
Etymology
From Latin 'cedere' meaning 'to go, yield'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
cede ground:
To give up a position or let someone advance.
cede control:
To give up authority or governance over something.
cede territory:
To formally give up a land area, often in a treaty.
Slang Meanings
To back down or give in during a dispute.
When things got heated, he decided to cede and let her have her way.
To let someone else take the lead or initiative.
In the meeting, Sarah ceded to John when he had a better solution.