presided

Presided is the past tense and past participle of the verb preside. To preside means to exercise authority or to officiate at a formal gathering, meeting, or ceremony; the presider leads proceedings, maintains order, and ensures that rules or procedures are followed.

Etymology: The word derives from Latin praesidere, from prae- “before” and sedere “to sit.”

Contexts: In governmental or organizational settings, the presiding officer chairs meetings, runs debates, and enforces rules. In the judiciary, a presiding judge or magistrate oversees trials or hearings. In religious or ceremonial contexts, a priest, imam, or other officiant may preside at worship services, weddings, or rites.

Usage notes: Presided is used for events already completed, for example, “She presided over the conference last year.” The present tense is preside; the present participle is presiding, used for ongoing action (e.g., “The presiding officer is currently speaking.”)

Relations: Related terms include preside (the base form), presiding officer, presidency, and president. The act of presiding is distinct from the office or position itself; “president” or “presidency” refer to a person or the office, not the act of leading a proceeding.