What does the term "antecedent" mean in grammar?

The term "antecedent" in grammar refers to a noun that is replaced by a pronoun in a sentence. This relationship helps to avoid repetition and creates a smoother flow of ideas. For example, in the sentence "Sarah lost her keys," "Sarah" is the antecedent of the pronoun "her." The antecedent provides clarity about to whom the pronoun refers, making the sentence easier to understand. This concept is essential for constructing coherent sentences and understanding the connections between different parts of speech.