previous

Definitions

1. adjective

   Coming before something else.

   Examples

   • He is no better than the previous Prime Minister.
   • Please read the previous chapter first.
2. adjective

   In old-fashioned use, too early or too hasty.

   Examples

   • Don't be so previous, wait until you're asked.
   • His previous remarks embarrassed the whole team.
3. noun

   In British informal use, a criminal record.

   Examples

   • It turned out the thief had a lot of previous.
   • The man had eight previouses for theft.
   ≈form
4. noun

   In British informal use, a history of the same bad behavior.

   Examples

   • The suspect had previous for burglary.
   • Police saw that he had previous when they arrested him again.
5. noun

   In British informal use, a history of past conflict between people.

   Examples

   • There's clearly some previous between those two.
   • The argument showed there was previous between them.