preception

noun

pre·​cep·​tion
prēˈsepshən,
prə̇s-
plural -s
Roman law
: the taking before general distribution of an estate of something as a legacy under an option to select granted by the will to the legatee

Word History

Etymology

Latin praeception-, praeceptio, from praeceptus (past participle of praecipere to take beforehand) + -ion-, -io -ion

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near preception

Cite this Entry

“Preception.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preception. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!