prelims
UK[ˈprɛlɪmz]US[ˈprɪlɪmz, ˈprɛlɪmz]
n
Preliminary examinations, especially those qualifying for a higher degree or for a more advanced course of study.
n
Preliminary or introductory events, actions, or materials.
Morpheme Breakdown
pre
lim
s
pre
before
lim
threshold
s
plural suffix
Etymology
The word 'prelims' is a shortened form of 'preliminaries', which itself derives from the Medieval Latin 'praeliminaris', meaning "serving as a preface or introduction." This Latin term is a compound of the prefix 'prae-' (before) and the noun 'limen' (threshold). The literal image is of something that occurs "before the threshold," that is, before one crosses into the main event or subject. Over time, this concrete spatial concept evolved into the abstract sense of introductory actions or qualifying tests, with 'prelims' becoming a standard colloquial term in academic contexts for the examinations taken before proceeding to the main course or final degree.
Analysis
Structure: pre (before) + lim (threshold) + s (plural suffix)
- pre: A prefix of Latin origin meaning "before, in front of, prior to."
- lim: A root from Latin limen, meaning "threshold, doorway, entrance."
- s: A suffix of Old English origin, commonly used to form the regular plural of nouns.
Examples
She spent the entire summer studying for her university prelims.
The prelims of the boxing tournament will be held next week.
After passing the prelims, he was allowed to begin his doctoral research.