pre-Christian

[ pree-kris-chuhn ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or belonging to a time or period before the Christian Era.

pre-Christian

adjective

1. of or referring to the period of history prior to the establishment of Christianity

Word History and Origins

Origin of pre-Christian¹

First recorded in 1820–30; pre- + Christian

Example Sentences

Figure 14 is a symbol frequently seen in Greek churches, but appears to be of pre-Christian origin.

From Project Gutenberg

Paul could claim that even in his pre-Christian days he had lived in all good conscience towards both God and man.

From Project Gutenberg

They certainly inherited much from the pre-Christian idea of Hades.

From Project Gutenberg

The sign of the cross, certainly long pre-Christian in the Egyptian sign for life, is specially dealt with in the last two works.

From Project Gutenberg

Most of it was the product of pre-Christian Judaism, and seemed to have been composed in times of great national excitement.

From Project Gutenberg