Definition

Relating to the period of time before written records were kept, often used to describe cultures or societies that existed before historical documentation.

Example

The archaeologists studied protohistoric artifacts to learn about the early inhabitants of the region.

Conversation

Have you ever read about protohistoric cultures?

No, I haven't. What are they like?

They're fascinating, as they bridge the gap between prehistory and recorded history.

That sounds interesting! I need to look into it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Protohistoric → It is formed from "proto-" (from Greek "protos", meaning first) and "historic" (from Greek "historikos", meaning relating to history). The word refers to the period of human history that precedes written records, thus meaning the first stages of history before it was documented.

Memory Tip

Think of 'proto-' meaning 'first' and 'historic' relating to 'history' — protohistoric refers to the earliest stages of history before it was written down.

Visually Confused Words