prehuman

[ pree-hyoo-muhnor, often, -yoo- ]

adjective

1. preceding the appearance or existence of human beings:

   the prehuman ages.

2. of or relating to a human prototype.

noun

1. a prehuman animal.

Word History and Origins

Origin of prehuman¹

First recorded in 1835–45; pre- + human

Example Sentences

“Pure prehuman and micro-organic chemistry,” Aaron broke in.

From Project Gutenberg

So long as the organic hosts were in the prehuman stage the maintenance of the accord was easily and naturally attained.

From Project Gutenberg

This prehuman stage has, none the less, a very great significance in the developmental history of man.

From Project Gutenberg

Some regarded the skull as that of a giant gibbon, others as prehuman, and still others as a transition form.

From Project Gutenberg