Previous (adjective)

1. Existing or happening before something else in time, order, or importance.
2. Denoting the one previously mentioned or referred to.

Origin:

Late middle english: from old french previs, based on latin praevius "preceding", from prae "before" + via "way".

Examples:

1. The previous owner of the car had kept it in excellent condition.
2. She read the previous chapter before starting the new one.
3. His previous work experience was not relevant to the job.
4. She was asked to recall previous events leading up to the incident.
5. In the previous year, the company made a significant profit.