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

As always, the science of leadership is a great deal more nuanced than our implicit preconceptions would imply. — Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

Beck never told Nilles what to play or how to play it, which left her with preconceptions ill-suited to Rush. — Brian Hiatt, Rolling Stone, 14 Aug. 2026

Over the past few years, a growing cohort of designers who put knitwear at the center of their creative practice has emerged, challenging preconceptions about knitwear and filling demand for pieces that combine craft with technical innovation. — Ashley Ogawa Clarke, Vogue, 29 July 2026

In graceful, gimlet-eyed prose, Edwidge Danticat stares down preconceptions of family and belonging, lending her novel propulsion and promise. — Hamilton Cain, Time, 7 July 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