preexist

American  

[pree-ig-zist] / ˌpri ɪgˈzɪst /

Or pre-exist

verb (used without object)

1. to exist beforehand.

2. to exist in a previous state.

---

verb (used with object)

1. to exist prior to (something or someone else); precede.

   primitive artifacts that preexisted sophisticated tools.

Other Word Forms

• preexistence noun
• preexistent adjective

Etymology

Origin of preexist

First recorded in 1590–1600; pre- + exist

Example Sentences

“I want something super maximalist. I want it to be a preexisting image. And I wanted to do something that is shocking or crazy,” says Kemp.

From Los Angeles Times

My working theory is that they tap into audiences with a preexisting suspicion that the world is wicked — they prove paranoia to be well-founded.

From Los Angeles Times

DHS pulled into its structure several preexisting agencies, such as the Coast Guard, which continued to perform their traditional missions.

From Salon

As for Summers, who is pregnant, she said the incident has “triggered preexisting serious health issues.”

From Los Angeles Times

Before it took effect in 2014, insurance companies in many states could deny coverage for preexisting conditions.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• anticipate
• foreshadow
• predate
• presage