Precede (verb)

1. To come or go before in time, order, or rank.
2. To be or act as a preceding event, circumstance, or influence.
3. To go before in an official procession or ceremony.

Origin:

Early 16th century: from latin praecedere, from prae "before" + cedere "go".

Examples:

1. The storm preceded the flood.
2. His resignation preceded the appointment of the new CEO.
3. The ceremony was preceded by a moment of silence.
4. The introduction preceded the presentation.
5. His warning preceded the accident.