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Definition of "preexist" [pre•ëx•ist]

  • To exist before (something); precede: Dinosaurs preexisted humans. (verb-transitive)
  • To exist beforehand. (verb-intransitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "preexist" in a sentence
  • "Specifically, I am endlessly compelled by the notion that higher stages or levels do not preexist, that is, they are not "given" but are literally created by brave individuals who actually venture into new, uncharted territory, laying down "Kosmic grooves" that others follow, which eventually become actual new structures or stages."
  • "Slots for the "talented" preexist the people who fill them."
  • "But stop talking about rights that preexist the Constitution."