to be in charge of a formal event, ceremony, or meeting, to be the leader of a group or organization

preside at/over something, preside over something, preside at the table

Formal and Informal Expressions of preside

In different contexts, you can replace 'preside' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'chair, conduct' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'run, be in charge' is a commonplace synonym.

preside: Explore its Definition & Usage

preside Definition

1to be in charge of a formal event, ceremony, or meeting
2to be the leader of a group or organization

Using preside: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "preside" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The judge will preside over the trial.
Example
The president presided over the meeting.
Example
She presides over a large corporation.
Example
He presided as the chairman of the board.

preside Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for preside

Antonyms for preside

Phrases with preside

preside at/over something
to be in charge of a formal event, ceremony, or meeting
Example
The mayor presided over the opening ceremony of the new library.
preside over something
to be the leader of a group or organization
Example
She presides over the company's board of directors.
preside at the table
to sit at the head of the table and be in charge of a meal or gathering
Example
The hostess presided at the table, making sure everyone had enough to eat and drink.

Origins of preside

from Latin 'praesidere', meaning 'to sit in front of'

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Summary: preside in Brief

To 'preside' [priˈzaɪd] means to be in charge of a formal event, ceremony, or meeting, or to be the leader of a group or organization. It is often used in the context of formal gatherings, such as trials or meetings, as well as in the business world, where someone may preside over a company or board of directors.