pre-

prefix

1
a(1)
: earlier than : prior to : before
Precambrian
prehistoric
(2)
: preparatory or prerequisite to
premedical
b
: in advance : beforehand
precancel
prepay
2
: in front of : anterior to
preaxial
premolar

Word History

Etymology

Latin prae-, from prae in front of, before — more at for

Dictionary Entries Near pre-

prcht

pre-

preabdomen

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Cite this Entry

“Pre-.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pre-. Accessed 27 Jun. 2024.

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Kids Definition

pre-

prefix
1
a
: earlier than : before
prehistoric
b
: in preparation for : required for
premedical
2
: in advance : beforehand
prepay
3
: in front of : front
premolar
Etymology

Latin prae- "before," from Latin prae "in front of, before"

Legal Definition

pre-

prefix
1
a
: earlier than : prior to : before
premarital
prejudgment
b
: preparatory or prerequisite to
prehearing
2
: in advance : beforehand
prepay

More from Merriam-Webster on pre-

Nglish: Translation of pre- for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of pre- for Arabic Speakers

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