Pre- (?). [L. prae, adv. & prep., before, akin to pro, and to E. for, prep.: cf. F. pr'e-. See Pro-, and cf. Prior.]

A prefix denoting priority (of time, place, or rank); as, precede, to go before; precursor, a forerunner; prefix, to fix or place before; preeminent eminent before or above others. Pre- is sometimes used intensively, as in prepotent, very potent.

[Written also prae-.]

 

© Webster 1913.