Definition

Relating to the time before plants begin to grow above the ground.

Example

The preemergence treatment helps control weeds before they sprout.

Conversation

Have you heard about the preemergence treatments for the garden?

Yeah, I think they help prevent weeds before they start growing.

Exactly! I want to apply them before the plants start to show.

That sounds like a smart plan; it's always better to be proactive.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Preemergence → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "emergere" (from Latin, meaning to emerge or rise). The word "preemergence" refers to the state or action of something that occurs before it emerges or rises.

Memory Tip

Think of something happening 'before' ('pre-') it 'rises' ('emergere') — that's what preemergence means.

Visually Confused Words