# cede

/ˈsid/ (US) · /sˈiːd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cede
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

to give up control or ownership of something, especially a piece of land or a right, to another person or country.

For teachers: to formally surrender or give up possession or control of something, typically a territory or a right, to another party.

## Examples

- The country decided to cede the disputed island to its neighbor.
- After the treaty was signed, the former empire had to cede several provinces to the newly independent state.
- The historical treaty required the losing side to cede vast tracts of territory, effectively reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the region for decades to come.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.