succeeds
|suc-ceeds|
/səkˈsiːdz/
(succeed)
achieve success
Etymology
'succeed' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'succedere,' where the prefix 'sub-' meant 'under' and 'cedere' meant 'to go.'
'succeed' changed from Middle English 'succeeden' (from Old French 'succeeder') and eventually became the modern English word 'succeed' via regular sound and spelling changes.
Initially, it meant 'to go under / come after' or 'to follow,' but over time it evolved to include the current meanings 'to follow in position' and 'to achieve or be successful.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to achieve the desired aim or result (often used with in + -ing or with objects: succeed in doing something / succeed at something).
She succeeds in finishing the project on time despite delays.
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Verb 2
to come after someone in a position, office, or role; to replace or take the place of (often used with succeed someone or succeed to something).
He succeeds his father as company chairman next month.
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Last updated: 2025/08/16 14:08