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 notesIn plain EnglishFrom the very earliest times — ancient, untouched, original.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
primeval forest
primeval swamp
primeval instinct
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more primeval
- Superlative
- most primeval
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The explorers pushed deep into the _____ forest.
Etymology
From Latin primaevus, "in the earliest period of life," from prīmus ("first") and aevum ("age, time").
Synonyms
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Related words
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").
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