© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

prehistoric

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌpriːhɪˈstɒrɪk/

KK: /priˈhɪstərɪk/

adjective
Definition

Relating to the time before written history, often referring to ancient times when early humans lived and developed.


Example

The museum has a fascinating exhibit on prehistoric animals and their habitats.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever watched a documentary about prehistoric animals?
Sloth B
Yeah, they're fascinating! I love how they show their habitats.
Sloth A
I find it amazing how much we can learn about prehistoric life from fossils.
Sloth B
Absolutely! It feels like stepping back in time.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
ancient
primeval
antiquated
Antonyms
modern
contemporary
recent
Root Explanation

Prehistoric → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "historicus" (from Greek "historikos", meaning relating to history). The word "prehistoric" refers to the time period before recorded history.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pre-' meaning 'before' and 'historicus' relating to 'history' — so prehistoric describes the time before history was recorded.

Visually Confused Words
historic
superhistoric
protohistoric
predistrict
pseudohistoric
historics
Is this page helpful?