Definition

In a way that relates to the time before written history.

Example

The cave paintings were created prehistorically, long before any written records existed.

Conversation

Did you know some animals lived prehistorically?

Really? That sounds fascinating!

Yeah, I read about how they adapted to their environments prehistorically.

That's amazing! I love learning about ancient creatures.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Prehistorically → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "history" (from Greek "historia", meaning inquiry or knowledge). The suffix "-ically" (meaning in a manner relating to) indicates the manner of something. Thus, "prehistorically" refers to the manner of events or conditions that existed before recorded history.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pre-' meaning 'before' and 'history' as the record of past events. This helps you remember that 'prehistorically' refers to things that happened before history was recorded.

Visually Confused Words