preschool

American  

[pree-skool, pree-skool] / ˈpriˈskul, ˈpriˌskul /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or intended for a child between infancy and school age.

   new methods of preschool education.

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noun

1. a school or nursery for preschool children.

preschool British  

/ priːˈskuːl /

adjective

1. 1. (of a child) under the age at which compulsory education begins

   2. (of services) for or relating to preschool children

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Etymology

Origin of preschool

First recorded in 1920–25; pre- + school ¹

Example Sentences

Many young children missed out on preschool and other social experiences during the pandemic that could have helped prepare them for school.

From Los Angeles Times

This will be one heck of a story for her first day of preschool.

From Literature

According to the SEC complaint, she had previously worked as a substitute preschool teacher, a radio-station promoter and an assistant at an online educational company that Lopez started.

From The Wall Street Journal

“I’m a nanny, and I pick up a couple of kids from their preschool and I know and love so many kids with parents in pretty tenuous situations,” said McElroy, who is Irish American.

From Los Angeles Times

Research suggests that attending a high-quality preschool program is one of the best ways to boost kindergarten readiness.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• day-care center
• kindergarten