Meaning & Definition of word "Prescient"

Prescient

/ˈprɛsɪənt/

adjective:

  • 1. Having or showing knowledge of events before they take place.
    • Example: The prescient scientist predicted the environmental crisis decades before it occurred.
  • 2. Characterized by foresight; able to anticipate what will happen in the future.
    • Example: Her prescient remarks about the economy proved to be unfortunately accurate.
  • 3. Relating to foreknowledge or foresight.
    • Example: The prescient comments in his latest book reflect a deep understanding of societal trends.
  • 4. Having foresight; knowing in advance.
    • Example: The prescient investors who bought stocks early are now reaping significant rewards.

Etymology

From Latin 'praescientem', present participle of 'praescire', meaning 'to know beforehand'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

prescient vision:

The ability to foresee future events or outcomes.

prescient analysis:

An analysis that anticipates trends or developments before they happen.

Related Words

foresight:

The ability to predict or plan for the future based on present knowledge.

clairvoyance:

The ability to gain information about an object or event through extrasensory perception.

Slang Meanings of prescient

Meaning: Having an uncanny ability to predict trends.

Example Sentence: That guy is so prescient; he knew the band was going to blow up before anyone else did.

Meaning: Being ahead of the curve in understanding future developments.

Example Sentence: Her prescient comments about tech advancements have made her the go-to person in our group.