Meaning & Definition of word "Preside"

Preside

/prɪˈzaɪd/

verb:

  • 1. To hold the position of authority in a meeting or gathering; to oversee or direct proceedings.
    • Example: The committee chair will preside over the annual meeting next week.
  • 2. To have control or authority in a particular situation.
    • Example: The judge presided over the court case with a firm yet fair hand.
  • 3. To be in a position of influence or power.
    • Example: She was invited to preside at the conference as the keynote speaker.
  • 4. To occupy the place of authority in a gathering.
    • Example: He was chosen to preside during the group discussions on policy reform.

Etymology

Derived from Latin 'praesidere', meaning 'to sit before' or 'to preside over'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

preside over:

to have authority or control over something

presiding officer:

the individual in charge of a meeting or function

preside at a meeting:

to lead or oversee a gathering of people

Related Words

chair:

a person who leads a meeting

moderate:

to oversee a discussion or debate

manage:

to be in charge of something

Slang Meanings of preside

Meaning: to take charge in an informal setting

Example Sentence: He really knows how to preside over the party.

Meaning: to be the main person in a gathering

Example Sentence: She wasn't just attending; she was presiding like a boss.