Dictionary.net

Priority in time; the previous question, a mode of moving the rejection of a motion in a deliberating assembly,-a member gets a motion put, another holding different views, without moving a direct negative, may simply move "the previous question," and the adoption of the latter motion secures the rejection of the former. Note.-This practice is borrowed from the usage of the British Parliament, being an ingenious mode of endeavouring to avoid a vote on any question that is proposed. When a question is about to be put by the Speaker, a member may interpose by moving that the same question be now put, and if this be negatived, then the main question cannot be put at that time.