'preside' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'praesidere,' where 'prae-' meant 'before' and 'sedere' meant 'to sit.'

'praesidere' transformed into the Old French word 'presider,' and eventually became the modern English word 'preside' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to sit before or in front of,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to lead or oversee a meeting or event.'