rhizoverbBeta
DictionarypresideBe in charge
verb

preside

prih-ZYDE/prɪˈzaɪd/

To lead or oversee an event, organization, or activity.

She presides over the meeting from the head of the table.

A Black woman chairing a board meeting from the head of a table, guiding discussion with an open hand.
Etymology
preLatinbefore, in front of
+sideLatinto sit

The image is of sitting in front of others, hence occupying the position of authority. That developed into directing proceedings, as when someone leads a meeting.

In context

AboutAncientRome1:09
They could call and preside over the plebeian assembly, which was a gathering of common citizens. In this assembly they proposed laws called plebbeites that directly affected the plebeians.
How Did The Tribune Of The Plebs Protect Citizens In Ancient Rome? - All About Rome

More examples

  • The judge presided at the hearing.
  • He presides over a committee of volunteers.
  • The chair asked another member to preside in her absence.

Forms

preside · presides · presided · presiding

Similar words

chair
Chair leads a meeting; preside can oversee ceremonies, institutions, or proceedings more broadly.
supervise
Supervise monitors work; preside often means formally lead or hold authority over an event.