prehistory

noun

pre·​his·​to·​ry ˌprē-ˈhi-st(ə-)rē How to pronounce prehistory (audio)
1
: the study of prehistoric humankind
2
: a history of the antecedents of an event, situation, or thing
3
: the prehistoric period of human evolution

Examples of prehistory in a Sentence

We are learning about the prehistory of North America.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Yet recently, the prehistory of the Austin area has moved center stage. Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025 Both books are concerned with constructing a prehistory that builds into a dramatic epicenter for their specific milieus, the post-Reconstruction white southern family and the post-Great Migration black family in Harlem, respectively. Ocean Vuong october 15, Literary Hub, 15 Oct. 2019 Howdy Texas history buffs, Karen and Michael Collins have contributed mountains of evidence about Texas prehistory and history. Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 Take a few minutes to peruse these other Think Texas stories about the prehistory of the state. Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for prehistory

Word History

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of prehistory was in 1871

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Cite this Entry

“Prehistory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prehistory. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

prehistory

noun
pre·​his·​to·​ry (ˈ)prē-ˈhis-t(ə-)rē How to pronounce prehistory (audio)
: the study of prehistoric man
prehistorian
ˌprē-(h)is-ˈtōr-ē-ən
-ˈtȯr-
noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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