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

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