Meaning & Definition of word "Prewar"

Prewar

/ˌpriːˈwɔːr/

1. Referring to the period before a war, especially in relation to societal, economic, and cultural aspects.
- Example: The city retained much of its prewar charm, with beautifully preserved architecture.
2. Pertaining to the time before a specific war, often used in historical contexts.
- Example: Historians have studied the prewar treaties that contributed to the outbreak of conflict.
3. Describing items, styles, or systems that were typical or prevalent before the war.
- Example: The museum featured a collection of prewar artifacts showcasing everyday life.
4. Indicating a political or social climate that existed before a war.
- Example: The prewar attitudes of the population were significantly different from those during the conflict.

The word 'prewar' is formed from the prefix 'pre-' meaning 'before' and 'war'.

prewar era:

The time period that existed before any significant war, usually characterized by specific social or cultural conditions.

prewar policies:

Policies that were established prior to the outbreak of a war.

postwar:

Referring to the period after a war.

antebellum:

Existing or occurring before a war, especially in the context of the American Civil War.