preta

American  

[prey-tuh] / ˈpreɪ tə /

noun

Hindu Mythology.

1. a wandering or disturbed ghost.

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Etymology

Origin of preta

First recorded in 1810–15; from Sanskrit: literally, “gone forth, gone before, dead,” equivalent to prefix pra- “forth” + participle ita- “gone”

Example Sentences

Thousands of years ago, the region’s Indigenous peoples solved this problem by creating “terra preta” from table scraps and charcoal and tucking it away in the hostile soil.

From Salon

The fact that scientists are finding intact biochar in the Amazon’s ancient terra preta suggests that it’s happening.

From Salon

Hunter and Preta were separated from him on Tuesday, as they boarded different boats during a rescue operation.

From Seattle Times

In the Amazon, ancient people intentionally boosted soils with charcoal, creating terra preta, or “dark earth” areas that remain nutrient-rich today.

From Science Magazine

Leo's mother Preta says on the surface the work was really appealing for a teenager.

From BBC