Meaning & Definition of word "Prior"
Prior
/ˈpraɪər/
noun:
- 1. A person who is in charge of a monastery or convent.
- Example: The prior welcomed the visitors to the monastery.
adjective:
- 1. Existing or occurring before in time.
- Example: She had no prior experience in the field before starting her new job.
- 2. Earlier in rank, importance, or order.
- Example: The prior commitments prevented him from attending the meeting.
- 3. Occurring before something else.
- Example: The changes will take effect prior to the launch of the new product.
Etymology
●From Latin 'prior' meaning 'former, previous'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
prior to:
Before a specified time or event.
prior engagement:
A commitment or appointment that has already been scheduled.
prior knowledge:
Knowledge that was acquired before a particular time.
Related Words
precede:
To come before something in time.
predecessor:
One who precedes another in a position or office.
Slang Meanings of prior
Meaning: A former partner or friend.
● Example Sentence: I can't believe I saw my prior at the party; it was so awkward!
Meaning: A prior reference to someone or something.
● Example Sentence: He mentioned his prior in that last meeting, which led to confusion.