noun

proceeding

A formal legal action or a step in an organized process.

The judge pauses the proceeding to review the new evidence.

Etymology

Proceeding is formed from proceed, to go forward. It names a step or continuing action in a formal process, especially a legal one.

More examples

  • The company begins bankruptcy proceedings after months of losses.
  • A disciplinary proceeding gives the employee a chance to respond.
  • The committee keeps a record of its proceedings.

Forms

proceeding · proceedings

proceed verb — To continue or move forward with something.

Similar words

action
In law, often names a lawsuit rather than one procedural step.
hearing
Names a session for considering evidence, not the entire process.