preconception

noun

pre·​con·​cep·​tion ˌprē-kən-ˈsep-shən 

1

: a preconceived idea

2

: prejudice

Synonyms of preconception

• theory
• assumption

Examples of preconception in a Sentence

I came to the lecture without any preconceptions.

tried to go into the training sessions without any preconceptions

Recent Examples on the Web

At music director Fabio Luisi’s behest, the first piece on each program will be unidentified, encouraging audiences to listen without any preconceptions. —Scott Cantrell, Dallas Morning News, 6 Mar. 2026

More than just a mere tale of medieval heroism, this is a surreal, gorgeous piece of work that challenges preconceptions of fantasy dramas and feels vitally fresh. —Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 5 Mar. 2026

Those materials included, among other things, the logic of commodity capitalism and cultural preconceptions of their time. —Literary Hub, 3 Mar. 2026

There are no preconceptions, molds or formulas for a place like Dadeland. —Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 23 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for preconception

• apperception
• contraception
• interception
• misconception
• misperception
• conception
• deception
• exception
• inception
• perception
• reception
• intussusception

Medical Definition

preconception

adjective

pre·​con·​cep·​tion -kən-ˈsep-shən 

: occurring prior to conception

preconception genetic counseling