Prefix

/ˈprɛfɪks/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A word, letter, or number placed before another.

The word 'unhappy' contains the prefix 'un-', which indicates negation.

A syllable or group of syllables added to the beginning of a word to alter its meaning.

In programming, the prefix 'sub-' is often used to denote a subroutine.

An affix placed before a stem word.

The prefix 'bio-' is commonly used in terms like 'biography' and 'biodiversity.'

verb

To attach a prefix to a word.

You can prefix the word 'log' with 'bio-' to form 'biolog.'

From Latin 'praefixus', past participle of 'praefigere', meaning 'to fasten in front'.

prefix code

A sequence of characters that precedes an identifier to show its category.

prefix tree

A data structure that represents a set of strings, where keys are represented by paths in the tree.

suffix

A letter or group of letters added at the end of a word.

infix

A morpheme inserted within a word.

affix

A general term for a prefix, suffix, infix, or circumfix.

The 'pre' that's added to something for emphasis.

He really put a prefix on that task, making it sound impressive.

To give something a cool or trendy start.

She likes to prefix everything with 'super' to make it fun.