Synonyms for

Prefix

Verb / ˈpri:fɪks / Another word for prefix — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a group of letters added to the beginning of a word to change its meaning

Synonyms & similar words

suffix affix prefixation preformative premodifier preposition pronominalize qualifier root stem suffix

Synonyms by register

Formal

prelude preamble precursor foreword

Informal

start beginning intro opener

Literary

prologue harbinger forerunner

Antonyms

suffix ending appendage addition postscript tail

Common collocations

  • add a prefix
  • remove a prefix
  • common prefix
  • word prefix
  • prefix notation
  • prefix code
  • prefix sum
  • prefix tree

Word family

noun prefix
verb prefix
adjective prefixal

Usage note

A prefix is a morpheme added to the beginning of a word to modify its meaning. It is distinct from a suffix, which is added to the end.

Example sentences

  1. The prefix 're-' means 'again'.
  2. The word 'unhappy' has the prefix 'un-'.
  3. Adding the prefix 'mis-' to 'spell' changes the meaning to 'misspell'.
  4. The prefix 'pre-' means 'before'.
  5. The word 'unfair' has the prefix 'un-'.

Quotes

  • Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind. The use of words like 'prefix' and 'suffix' only adds to the beauty of language.
  • The prefix 'un-' is the most popular prefix in the English language.
  • The prefix 'pre-' is often used in academic writing.

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