{ Pre*ced"ence (?), Pre*ced"en*cy (?), } n. [Cf. F. précédence. See Precede.] 1. The act or state of preceding or going before in order of time; priority; as, one event has precedence of another.

2. The act or state of going or being before in rank or dignity, or the place of honor; right to a more honorable place; superior rank; as, barons have precedence of commoners.

Which of them [the different desires] has the precedency in determining the will to the next action?

Syn. -- Antecedence; priority; preëminence; preference; superiority.

• The state of preceding in importance or priority.
       Family takes precedence over work, in an emergency.
  
• order of precedence