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prehistoric

American  
[pree-hi-stawr-ik, -stor-, pree-i-] / ˌpri hɪˈstɔr ɪk, -ˈstɒr-, ˌpri ɪ- /
Sometimes prehistorical

adjective

  1. of or relating to the time or a period prior to recorded history.

    The dinosaur is a prehistoric beast.

  2. Slang. outdated; passé.

    My mom has these prehistoric ideas about proper dress.


prehistoric British  
/ ˌpriːhɪˈstɒrɪk /

adjective

  1. of or relating to man's development before the appearance of the written word

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • prehistorically adverb

Etymology

Origin of prehistoric

First recorded in 1850–55; pre- + historic

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"And although the large models paint a broad picture, detailed local studies are absolutely essential to improve our understanding of the way humans shaped the landscape in prehistoric times," says Jens-Christian Svenning.

From Science Daily

“I’m saying it doesn’t make any difference. Dead or alive, we have to get by this prehistoric speed bump or we’re going to die on this road. One way or the other we’re dead.”

From Literature

By closely examining the people who died in what may be one of Europe's earliest known victory celebrations, scientists are challenging long-held assumptions about prehistoric warfare and its purpose.

From Science Daily

Fosilized dinosaur footprints offer valuable insight into prehistoric life, helping scientists understand how dinosaurs moved and behaved.

From Science Daily

Some of these prehistoric species are thought to have weighed up to 250 kilograms, yet a study published in Scientific Reports indicates they may have been capable of hopping in short bursts.

From Science Daily