Definition

Relating to a period or system that existed before the development of capitalism.

Example

The precapitalist societies relied on barter and trade rather than monetary transactions.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about what life was like in a precapitalist society?

Not really, but it sounds interesting. How different could it be?

I imagine it was more about community and less about money.

Yeah, that makes sense. People probably focused on sharing resources instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A person who belongs to a society that existed before the development of capitalism.

Example

In the study of economic history, a precapitalist often represents the social structures that existed before modern market economies.

Conversation

I just read an interesting book about precapitalist societies.

That sounds fascinating! What did it say?

It talked about how these societies functioned without the influence of capitalism.

Root Explanation

Precapitalist → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "capitalist" (from Latin "capitale", meaning property or wealth). The word refers to a time or system that existed before the establishment of capitalism, which is characterized by private ownership of capital and the means of production.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pre-' meaning before, and 'capitalist' relating to wealth or property. This helps you remember that 'precapitalist' refers to a time before the capitalist system.

Visually Confused Words