'precedence' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'praecedentia,' where 'prae-' meant 'before' and 'cedere' meant 'to go.'

'praecedentia' transformed into the Old French word 'precedence,' and eventually became the modern English word 'precedence' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'the act of going before,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'priority in importance or rank.'