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Definition of preposition

preposition

/ˌprɛp.əˈzɪʃ.ən/
prep · o · si · tion
Adverb:prepositionally
•
Plural:prepositions
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Adjective:prepositional
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preposition Lexical Profile

preposition Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A word or fixed group of words typically placed before a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase to express a spatial, temporal, or other grammatical relationship to another element in the clause (such as 'in', 'on', 'by', 'to', or 'with').

Example

"In the sentence 'The book is on the table,' the word 'on' functions as a preposition."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for preposition
Antonyms
View all antonyms for preposition

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'preposition' (a grammatical word such as 'in', 'on', or 'under') with 'proposition' (a suggested statement, plan, or offer).

• Rhymes for preposition

• Nearby Words

prepollex
preponderance
prepone
preposition
prepositional
prepossession
preposterous

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Latin praepositio, meaning 'a putting before', from praeponere ('to place in front'), translating Ancient Greek prothesis because such words are typically placed before the nouns they govern.

Cite this Entry

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