Main Entry: a pri·o·ri

Pronunciation: \ˌä-prē-ˈȯr-ē, ˌa-; ˌā-(ˌ)prī-ˈȯr-ˌī, -ˌprē-ˈȯr-ē\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Latin, literally, from the former

Date: 1652

1 a : deductive b : relating to or derived by reasoning from self-evident propositions — compare a posteriori c : presupposed by experience
2 a : being without examination or analysis : presumptive b : formed or conceived beforehand

— a priori adverb

— apri·or·i·ty \-ˈȯr-ə-tē\ noun