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

Because neurological diversity frequently defies preconceptions, this extended demography is crucial. —Lucy Jones april 11, Miami Herald, 11 Apr. 2026

The real risk for leaders is a future workforce of people who cannot or will not challenge their own preconceptions; who cannot embrace new ideas or work well with those whose views differ from their own. —Francesca Cassidy, Fortune, 8 Apr. 2026

Gorgeously shot, a tender portrait of community in northern Maine, finding metaphor in natural imagery while challenging preconceptions about gender and class. —Matthew Carey, Deadline, 26 Mar. 2026

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

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