prior
adjective OPAL W
/ˈpraɪə(r)/
/ˈpraɪər/
[only before noun] (formal)- happening or existing before something else or before a particular time
- Although not essential, some prior knowledge of statistics is desirable.
- This information must not be disclosed without prior written consent.
- Visits are by prior arrangement.
- Please give us prior notice if you need an evening meal.
- She will be unable to attend because of a prior engagement.
- already existing and therefore more important
- They have a prior claim to the property.
- prior tobefore something
- during the week prior to the meeting
Word Originadjective early 18th cent.: from Latin, literally ‘former, elder’, related to prae ‘before’.