preconception

noun

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

Synonyms of preconception

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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.
Related Stories The road movie follows two casting directors into the remote reaches of Mexico, where their search for natural actors for a sci-fi film becomes an unsettling journey into their own fears, biases and preconceptions. — Anna Marie De La Fuente, Variety, 24 Oct. 2026 For over 20 years, Erika Lust has been fighting against those preconceptions, creating adult content that expands the parameters of pornography while approaching it as something akin to mainstream independent cinema. — Marc Weingarten, Los Angeles Times, 17 Oct. 2026 The Middle Ages is a period freighted with the immense weight of outdated preconceptions. — James Folta, Literary Hub, 5 Oct. 2026 Starting from pre-pregnancy, starting from preconception, parents are told to start managing their health, to start managing all possible risks through nutrition and vitamins and supplements and exercise. — Nicholas Florko, STAT, 29 Sep. 2026 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

Rhymes for preconception

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Browse Nearby Words

preconcept
preconception
preconceptual
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Cite this Entry

“Preconception.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preconception. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Medical Definition

preconception

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