prevalence

noun

prev·​a·​lence ˈpre-və-lən(t)s 

ˈprev-lən(t)s

1

: the quality or state of being prevalent

2

: the degree to which something is prevalent

especially : the percentage of a population that is affected with a particular disease at a given time

Synonyms of prevalence

• frequency
• occurrence
• frequence

Examples of prevalence in a Sentence

the prevalence of rumors when hard information is withheld from the public

Recent Examples on the Web

Balzano blamed the growing prevalence of lithium-ion batteries in consumer products for an increase in fires at recycling facilities nationwide. —CBS News, 14 May 2026

One of the biggest reasons for the drop in overdose deaths is the prevalence of xylazine and medetomidine replacing high doses of fentanyl in Florida’s drug supply, Santamour said. —Ana Goñi-Lessan, Miami Herald, 14 May 2026

Ashley showcased the black slingback satin Mary Janes from the brand, a silhouette that plays into the flat slingback movement and the prevalence of Mary Janes and ballet flats. —Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 13 May 2026

The analysis tracked obesity prevalence as measured by BMI from 1980 through 2024. —Elizabeth Cooney, STAT, 13 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1682, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for prevalence

• benevolence
• malevolence
• seroprevalence

Kids Definition

prevalence

noun

prev·​a·​lence ˈprev(-ə)-lən(t)s 

1

: the state of being prevalent

2

: the degree to which something is prevalent

especially : the part of a population that is affected with a particular disease at a given time

Medical Definition

prevalence

noun

prev·​a·​lence ˈprev(-ə)-lən(t)s 

: the percentage of a population that is affected with a particular disease at a given time compare incidence sense 2b