Definition

A word or part of a word that is added before the main part of a verb to change its meaning.

Example

In the word 'forget', the 'for-' is a preverb that modifies the meaning of the root verb.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a preverb?

Yeah, it’s like a prefix that changes the meaning of a verb, right?

Exactly! It can really change how we understand the action.

I find it fascinating how such small changes can have a big impact.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Preverb is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "verb" (from Latin "verbum", meaning word). The term refers to a word that is placed before a verb to modify its meaning or function.

Memory Tip

Think of something that comes 'before' ('pre-') a 'word' ('verb') — that's what a preverb does.

Visually Confused Words