plural prefixes
1
: a letter or group of letters that is added at the beginning of a word to change its meaning
Add the prefix "re-" to form the words "retell" and "recall."
2
old-fashioned
: a title (such as "Mr." or "Dr.") that is used before a person's name
prefixes; prefixed; prefixing
: to add a letter, number, or symbol at the beginning of a word or number
Prefix "un" to "do" to form the word "undo."
The cost of the item was prefixed by/with a dollar sign.
Cite this Entry
“Prefix.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/prefix. Accessed 14 Jun. 2026.
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