noun
Uncommon
precursor
prih-KUR-suh
Precursor (noun) means something or someone that comes before and leads to, or signals, what follows. Example: “The steam engine was an important precursor to modern industrial machinery.”
noun
1
Something or someone that comes before and leads to, or signals, what follows.
"The steam engine was an important precursor to modern industrial machinery."
"Dark clouds are often a precursor to a storm."
How to use precursor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething that comes first and paves the way for, or hints at, what comes next.
Common pairings
a precursor to
an early precursor of
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Word forms
- Plural
- precursors
Fill the gap
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The steam engine was an important _____ to modern industrial machinery.
Etymology
From Latin praecursor, \"forerunner,\" from praecurrere, \"to run ahead.\"
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “precursor” mean?
The word “precursor” means something or someone that comes before and leads to, or signals, what follows. In plain terms, something that comes first and paves the way for, or hints at, what comes next.
How do you pronounce “precursor”?
“Precursor” is pronounced prih-KUR-suh (/pɹɪˈkɜɹ.səɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “precursor” in a sentence?
Here is “precursor” used in a sentence: “The steam engine was an important precursor to modern industrial machinery.”
What is another word for “precursor”?
Words with a similar meaning to “precursor” include antecedent, beforemath, foremath, precedent and progenitor.
What is the opposite of “precursor”?
The opposite of “precursor” — its antonyms — are aftermath, consecution, derivative, follower and sequel.
What part of speech is “precursor”?
“Precursor” is a noun.
Where does the word “precursor” come from?
The word “precursor” comes from Latin. From Latin praecursor, \"forerunner,\" from praecurrere, \"to run ahead.\".
Is “precursor” a common word?
“Precursor” is an uncommon word in modern English.
