preclinical

American  

[pree-klin-i-kuhl] / priˈklɪn ɪ kəl /

adjective

Medicine/Medical.

1. of or relating to the period prior to the appearance of the symptoms.

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preclinical British  

/ priːˈklɪnɪkəl /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or occurring during the early phases of a disease before accurate diagnosis is possible

2. of, relating to, or designating an early period of scientific study by a medical student before practical experience with patients

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Other Word Forms

• preclinically
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of preclinical

First recorded in 1930–35; pre- + clinical

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

preclinical

Commercial momentum in the discovery and preclinical development business is positive but the market might not be convinced that existing strategic programs and the pipeline are delayed rather than lost, RBC says.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 14, 2026

In preclinical studies and a small clinical trial, researchers found that adding probenecid reduced both urine volume and nighttime urination while maintaining the effectiveness of treatment.

From Science Daily ● Jun. 17, 2026

One example is using computer models rather than pipette-wielding humans in preclinical screens of molecules.

From Barron's ● Jun. 5, 2026

Researchers hope to determine whether the benefits observed in preclinical studies can be replicated in people living with type 2 diabetes or obesity.

From Science Daily ● Jun. 3, 2026

Ascidian said it will lead discovery and certain preclinical activities, while Eli Lilly will be responsible for other preclinical work, clinical development, manufacturing and commercialization.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 3, 2026