Question

what is antecedent

Answer 1

a thing or event that existed before or logically precedes another

Answer 2

In other words, if you need a more descriptive meaning:

In grammar, an antecedent is an expression (word, phrase, clause, etc.) that gives its meaning to a pro-form (pronoun, pro-verb, pro-adverb, etc.). A pro form takes its meaning from its antecedent, e.g. Susan arrived late because traffic held her up. The pronoun her refers to and takes its meaning from Susan, so Susan is the antecedent of her.

Answer 3

Thanks for the medal! :)