pre-Christian

adjective

pre-Chris·​tian (ˌ)prē-ˈkris-chən 

-ˈkrish-

: of, relating to, or being a time before the beginning of the Christian era

Examples of pre-Christian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Well, there’s this ancient pre-Christian festival twice a year called the Eisteddfod. — Emily Nussbaum, New Yorker, 21 June 2026

There are flashes of overwhelming tenderness and wind-stopping moments, and the songs are generally rich and full of character, populated by her usual cast of gay witches, Southern Baptist girls, medicine women, saints, and pre-Christian gods. — Emma Madden, Pitchfork, 30 Apr. 2026

Other highlights include Raphael's Rooms, former papal chambers featuring paintings by the Renaissance master, and the Profane Museum, which displays pre-Christian art and artifacts. — Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 30 Apr. 2026

For example, the tradition of Easter eggs stems from pre-Christian pagan traditions, per the outlet. — Michelle Del Rey, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for pre-Christian

• unchristian
• christian