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Definition of prehistory

prehistory

/priːˈhɪs.tə.ri/
pre · his · to · ry
Adverb:prehistorically
•
Plural:prehistories
•
Adjective:prehistoric
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prehistory Lexical Profile

prehistory Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The period of human existence and activity before the invention of writing systems and the keeping of written records, known primarily through archaeological and paleontological evidence.

Example

"Cave paintings in southern Europe offer a vivid glimpse into human life during prehistory."

2

The early background events, origins, or formative developments that preceded a particular situation, institution, or movement.

Example

"The introductory chapter traces the prehistory of the modern environmental movement back to nineteenth-century naturalists."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for prehistory

• Nearby Words

prehistoric
prehistorical
prehistorically
prehistory
preholiday
preindustrial
preinstall

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century on the model of French 'préhistoire', combining the Latin prefix 'prae-' (before) with 'history', from Ancient Greek 'historia' (inquiry, narrative).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Prehistory. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/prehistory
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