prior

/ˈpraɪər/
adjective
  1. Existing or happening before something else in time or order.
    • The team reviewed prior research to avoid repeating mistakes.
    • She had no prior experience with computers, but she learned quickly.
    • You need prior approval from your manager before taking a vacation.
noun
  1. A high-ranking monk who is the head of a priory (a small monastery).
    • The prior led the daily prayers in the monastery chapel.
    • Visitors to the priory often met with the prior to discuss spiritual matters.
    • After serving as prior for ten years, he was promoted to abbot.