Previous, preceding (5)
I believe the answer is:
prior
I believe this is a double definition.
'previous' is the first definition.
(prior means previous or earlier)
'preceding' is the second definition.
(similar in meaning)
(Other definitions for prior that I've seen before include "Abbott's deputy being earlier?" , "Coming before N a superior" , "English keeper" , "Previous; deputy abbot" , "figure of authority in retreat" .)