predate

[ pree-deyt ]

verb (used with object)

, pre·dat·ed, pre·dat·ing.

1. to date before the actual time; antedate:

   He predated the check by three days.

2. to precede in date:

   a house that predates the Civil War.

predate

/ priːˈdeɪt /

verb

1. to affix a date to (a document, paper, etc) that is earlier than the actual date
2. to assign a date to (an event, period, etc) that is earlier than the actual or previously assigned date of occurrence
3. to be or occur at an earlier date than; precede in time

Word History and Origins

Origin of predate¹

First recorded in 1860–65; pre- + date ¹

Example Sentences

Still, given their roots in premodern, personalist, “l’état c’est moi” government, it makes sense that these patrimonial dynamics not only predate modern capitalism but also our bedrock Enlightenment notion that sovereignty is derived from the people, and that the state is meant to serve their common good.

From Salon

The men have known each other for decades, the dynamics have been often bitter, dysfunctional even, but Biden’s positions predate even his relationship with the Israeli prime minister.

From BBC

Several workers who specialize in asbestos, lead and mold removal said efforts to safeguard against heat illness predate the state standards.

From Los Angeles Times

Figures published in July predate the riots, which saw cars torched in areas including Middlesbrough and Sunderland.

From BBC

After all, protests and violence like this long predate the existence of the internet.

From BBC

Related Words

• anticipate
• foreshadow
• outrank
• presage