The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Preside \Pre*side"\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. Presided; p. pr. &
   vb. n. Presiding.] [L. praesidere; prae before + sedere to
   sit: cf. F. pr['e]sider. See Sit.]
   1. To be set, or to sit, in the place of authority; to occupy
      the place of president, chairman, moderator, director,
      etc.; to direct, control, and regulate, as chief officer;
      as, to preside at a public meeting; to preside over the
      senate.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. To exercise superintendence; to watch over.
      [1913 Webster]

            Some o'er the public magazines preside. --Dryden.
      [1913 Webster]

The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Presiding \Pre*sid"ing\,
   a. & n. from Preside.
   [1913 Webster]

   Presiding elder. See under 2d Elder.
      [1913 Webster]