prehistory

noun

pre·​his·​to·​ry ˌprē-ˈhi-st(ə-)rē How to pronounce prehistory (audio)
1
: the study of prehistoric humankind
2
: a history of the antecedents of an event, situation, or thing
3
: the prehistoric period of human evolution

Examples of prehistory in a Sentence

We are learning about the prehistory of North America.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Part of the problem in learning about this stretch of prehistory is how ancient layers of dirt were deposited over the course of history in eastern Africa. Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 16 Aug. 2025 The explorer built the balsa wood raft to show that people could have made the trip in prehistory. Lorenzino Estrada, AZCentral.com, 7 Aug. 2025 Dinosaur teeth are no longer just relics of prehistory. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 5 Aug. 2025 Yet recently, the prehistory of the Austin area has moved center stage. Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for prehistory

Word History

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of prehistory was in 1871

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Cite this Entry

“Prehistory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prehistory. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

prehistory

noun
pre·​his·​to·​ry (ˈ)prē-ˈhis-t(ə-)rē How to pronounce prehistory (audio)
: the study of prehistoric man
prehistorian
ˌprē-(h)is-ˈtōr-ē-ən
-ˈtȯr-
noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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