noun
B1
Intermediate
prefix
PREE-fiks
Prefix (noun) means a group of letters added to the front of a word to change its meaning, such as un- in unhappy or re- in rewrite. Example: “Adding the prefix "un-" turns "kind" into "unkind".”
noun
1
A group of letters added to the front of a word to change its meaning, such as un- in unhappy or re- in rewrite.
"Adding the prefix "un-" turns "kind" into "unkind"."
"Most of these medical terms use a Greek prefix."
2
A set of characters or digits placed at the start of a code, number or name to identify a category, such as a dialling code or a title before a name.
"Every number in the region shares the same area prefix."
"Choose a prefix such as Mr, Ms or Dr from the drop-down."
verb
1
To put something in front of something else, especially at the start of a word or text.
"Prefix each filename with the date so they sort correctly."
How to use prefix
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishLetters stuck on the front of a word that change what it means.
When to use it
Neutral; standard in grammar teaching, forms and computing.
Memory tip
Prefixes come before the root, suffixes come after it: pre- itself means "before".
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
prefix vs suffix
prefix vs root word
Common pairings
prefix and suffix
common prefixes
country prefix
prefix the filename
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Adding the _____ "un-" turns "kind" into "unkind".
Etymology
From Latin praefigere "to fix in front", from prae- "before" + figere "to fasten".
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a prefix and a suffix?
A prefix goes at the front of a word and a suffix goes at the end. "Un-" in "unhelpful" is a prefix; "-ful" is a suffix. Prefixes usually change meaning, while suffixes often change the word's part of speech as well.
What are the most common prefixes in English?
Un-, re-, in-/im-, dis-, en-, non-, over-, mis-, sub-, pre- and de- account for most prefixed words in everyday English. Learning what a handful of them mean lets you work out thousands of unfamiliar words.
What is the meaning of prefix?
"prefix" (noun) means a group of letters added to the front of a word to change its meaning, such as un- in unhappy or re- in rewrite.
What is another word for prefix?
Other words for "prefix" include preface, precede.
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