English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
adj C2 Proficient

primeval

preye-MEE-vuhl

Primeval (adj) means belonging to the earliest ages of the world; ancient and primitive. Example: “The explorers pushed deep into the primeval forest.”

adj
1
Belonging to the earliest ages of the world; ancient and primitive.
"The explorers pushed deep into the primeval forest."
"Primeval humans relied on fire for warmth and protection."

How to use primeval

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishFrom the very earliest times — ancient, untouched, original.

Easily confused with
Common pairings
primeval forest primeval swamp primeval instinct

Word forms

more primeval comparative, most primeval superlative

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “primeval” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The explorers pushed deep into the _____ forest.

Etymology

From Latin primaevus, "in the earliest period of life," from prīmus ("first") and aevum ("age, time").

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for primeval

See all rhymes for primeval →

Frequently asked questions

What does “primeval” mean?

The word “primeval” means belonging to the earliest ages of the world; ancient and primitive. In plain terms, from the very earliest times — ancient, untouched, original.

How do you pronounce “primeval”?

“Primeval” is pronounced preye-MEE-vuhl (/pɹaɪ̯ˈmi.vəl/ in IPA).

How do you use “primeval” in a sentence?

Here is “primeval” used in a sentence: “The explorers pushed deep into the primeval forest.”

What part of speech is “primeval”?

“Primeval” is an adjective.

Where does the word “primeval” come from?

The word “primeval” comes from Latin. From Latin primaevus, "in the earliest period of life," from prīmus ("first") and aevum ("age, time").

Featured in

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial