Definition

Something that is widely or commonly found, accepted, or practiced in a particular area or among a group of people.

Example

The use of smartphones is prevalent among teenagers today.

Conversation

Have you noticed how prevalent social media is in our lives now?

Yeah, it seems like everyone is using it all the time.

It's crazy! I wonder if it'll always be this prevalent in the future.

Who knows? It might evolve into something even bigger.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Prevalent → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "valere" (meaning to be strong or to be worth). The word "prevalent" describes something that is strong or widespread before others, indicating its common presence or influence.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'strong' ('valere') and exists 'before' ('pre-') others — that's why prevalent means widely existing or common.

Visually Confused Words