to occupy the place of authority or control, as in an assembly or meeting; act as president or chairperson.

to exercise management or control (usually fol. by over )

The lawyer presided over the estate.

verb

follow , serve

verb

administer , advise , be at the head of , be in driver’s seat , call the signals , carry on , chair , conduct , control , direct , do the honors , govern , handle , head , head up , keep , lead , manage , officiate , operate , ordain , oversee , pull the strings , run , run the show , sit on top of , supervise , moderate , regulate