preexistence

noun

pre·​ex·​is·​tence prē-ig-ˈzi-stən(t)s How to pronounce preexistence (audio)
: existence in a former state or previous to something else
specifically : existence of the soul before its union with the body
preexistent adjective

Examples of preexistence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Belief in the preexistence. Gordon Monson, The Salt Lake Tribune, 28 Mar. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1652, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of preexistence was circa 1652

Dictionary Entries Near preexistence

Cite this Entry

“Preexistence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preexistence. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

preexistence

noun
pre·​ex·​is·​tence ˌprē-ig-ˈzis-tən(t)s How to pronounce preexistence (audio)
: existence in a former state or before something else
especially : existence of the soul before its union with the body
preexistent adjective
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