prehistoric
Prehistoric (adjective) means belonging to the time before humans kept written records. Example: “Archaeologists found prehistoric tools buried in the cave.”
adjective
1
Belonging to the time before humans kept written records.
"Archaeologists found prehistoric tools buried in the cave."
"The museum has a whole wing devoted to prehistoric life."
2
Extremely old-fashioned or outdated (used loosely, often humorously).
"My uncle still uses a prehistoric flip phone."
"That software looks positively prehistoric compared to modern apps."
How to use prehistoric
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishLiterally "before written history," but often used casually to mean "ancient" or "hopelessly outdated."
Common pairings
prehistoric times
prehistoric era
prehistoric creature
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more prehistoric
- Superlative
- most prehistoric
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Archaeologists found _____ tools buried in the cave.
Etymology
From pre- ("before") plus historic.
Synonyms
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prehistorical
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for prehistoric
See all rhymes for prehistoric →Frequently asked questions
What does “prehistoric” mean?
The word “prehistoric” means belonging to the time before humans kept written records. In plain terms, literally "before written history," but often used casually to mean "ancient" or "hopelessly outdated.".
How do you use “prehistoric” in a sentence?
Here is “prehistoric” used in a sentence: “Archaeologists found prehistoric tools buried in the cave.”
What part of speech is “prehistoric”?
“Prehistoric” is an adjective.
Is “prehistoric” a common word?
“Prehistoric” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “prehistoric” have?
“Prehistoric” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: belonging to the time before humans kept written records.
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