An′te‐ced″ent (�), a. [L. antecedens, -entis, p. pr. of antecedere: cf. F. antécédent.] 1. Going before in time; prior; anterior; preceding; as, an event antecedent to the Deluge; an antecedent cause.
2. Presumptive; as, an antecedent improbability.
Syn. — Prior; previous; foregoing.