preconception

noun

pre·​con·​cep·​tion ˌprē-kən-ˈsep-shən How to pronounce preconception (audio)
1
: a preconceived idea
2

Examples of preconception in a Sentence

I came to the lecture without any preconceptions. tried to go into the training sessions without any preconceptions
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Jaguar designer Malcom Sayer’s exquisite bolide exploded preconceptions of automotive beauty and performance. Robert Ross, Robb Report, 7 Mar. 2025 But white pants bring with them a host of associations and preconceptions about elitism, privilege and, in the case of boating, retrograde Boston Brahmin values, that anyone considering a pair of white jeans may want to consider. Vanessa Friedman, New York Times, 24 Feb. 2025 With his meditator’s aversion to preconceptions, Lynch embraced collaborative improvisation. Joshua Rothman, The New Yorker, 25 Jan. 2025 However, for fans who value a song's sound and direct application to their lives over preconceptions related to stereotypes, the space between the hard and honest truths that are the foundations of both genres benefits Lakeview's growth. Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean, 20 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for preconception

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of preconception was in 1625

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Preconception.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preconception. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

preconception

adjective
pre·​con·​cep·​tion -kən-ˈsep-shən How to pronounce preconception (audio)
: occurring prior to conception
preconception genetic counseling

More from Merriam-Webster on preconception

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!