Preside: meaning, definitions and examples

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preside

[prɪˈzaɪd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

formal meeting

To preside means to be in charge of a formal meeting or ceremony, making sure that it runs smoothly and according to the rules. The person presiding over a meeting is responsible for maintaining order, recognizing speakers, and ensuring that all participants have the opportunity to express their views.

Synonyms

chair, conduct, moderate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
preside	Used when someone is in charge of a formal event, meeting, or ceremony, often in an official capacity. She will preside over the annual shareholders' meeting The judge presides in the courtroom
chair	Typically used when someone is leading a meeting, committee, or organization, often on a regular basis. He will chair the committee meeting next Monday She was elected to chair the board of directors
moderate	Used when someone is facilitating a discussion or debate, ensuring that it proceeds smoothly and fairly. She will moderate the panel discussion at the conference The TV host moderated the political debate
conduct	Used when someone is leading or managing an activity, event, or group, with a focus on the process and execution. The professor will conduct the research study He conducted the orchestra with great skill

Examples of usage

The judge will preside over the trial.
The chairman will preside at the annual general meeting.
She will preside over the ceremony.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

authority

To preside can also refer to exercising authority or control over a situation or group of people. It implies leadership and decision-making responsibilities.

Synonyms

govern, lead, oversee.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
preside	This word is typically used in formal contexts where someone is in charge of a meeting, ceremony, or formal event. The judge will preside over the court proceedings. She was invited to preside at the annual conference.
govern	Governing refers to the act of ruling or managing a state, organization, or group. It often implies having authority and control. The president will govern the country for the next four years. The board of directors governs the organization's policies and objectives.
oversee	Oversee is often used when someone is responsible for supervising or managing a task or group to ensure things are done correctly. The supervisor will oversee the construction project. He was hired to oversee the company's new marketing campaign.
lead	Lead is a more general term and can be used in various contexts where someone is guiding, directing, or influencing others. It does not necessarily imply formal authority. She was chosen to lead the project team. A good manager knows how to lead by example.

Examples of usage

The president presides over the country's affairs.
The CEO presides over the company.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'praesidere,' which means 'to sit in front of' or 'to take the lead.'
It first appeared in English in the late 14th century, showing the importance of leadership in community and church gatherings.
The prefix 'pre-' indicates 'before' while 'sidere' relates to 'to sit,' thus implying a person who sits in front or leads.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, the ability to preside over discussions or decisions is often linked to social status and respect.
Presiding over a ceremony, like a wedding or graduation, carries deep traditions, often involving specific rituals.
Leadership roles in various societies highlight the importance of the presiding figure, such as a chief or elder.

Political Context

In parliamentary systems, specific individuals, like the Speaker, are assigned to preside, ensuring that rules are followed during debates.
The presiding officer in legislative bodies may have the authority to call for votes or maintain order among members.
Presiding over court sessions is a crucial role, where judges ensure fair proceedings and justice.

Psychology

Studies suggest that a confident presiding leader can influence group morale and decision-making outcomes positively.
Being in a position to preside often requires strong emotional intelligence to manage the dynamics of group interactions.
The presence of a presiding figure can create a sense of security and structure in group settings, fostering collaboration.

Literature

Many narratives explore themes of leadership by portraying characters who preside over conflicts or governance.
Classic literary works often depict presiding figures who shape the course of events based on their decisions.
In poetry, the act of presiding can be a metaphor for control over one's life or circumstances, highlighting struggles and triumph.

Translations

Translations of the word "preside" in other languages:

🇵🇹 presidir

🇮🇳 अध्यक्षता करना

🇩🇪 vorsitzen

🇮🇩 memimpin

🇺🇦 головувати

🇵🇱 przewodniczyć

🇯🇵 議長を務める (ぎちょうをつとめる)

🇫🇷 présider

🇪🇸 presidir

🇹🇷 başkanlık yapmak

🇰🇷 주재하다

🇸🇦 ترأس

🇨🇿 předsedat

🇸🇰 predsedávať

🇨🇳 主持 (zhǔchí)

🇸🇮 predsedovati

🇮🇸 stýra

🇰🇿 төрағалық ету

🇬🇪 თავმჯდომარეობა

🇦🇿 sədrlik etmək

🇲🇽 presidir

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,645, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
12642 brace
12643 burdened
12644 soften
12645 preside
12646 estuary
12647 ramifications
12648 confining
...