prevailing — existing at a particular time; current or most common
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: existing at a particular time; current or most common
Pronunciation (IPA): /prɪˈveɪlɪŋ/
Example Sentences
- Despite the prevailing belief that cats hate water, my cat loves taking baths.
- The prevailing economic conditions make it difficult for young people to buy homes.
- The prevailing fashion trend seems to be wearing pajamas to grocery stores.
prevailing
ADJECTIVE[/prɪˈveɪlɪŋ/]
existing at a particular time; current or most common

The tiny knight stood on the fallen dragon, becoming the prevailing hero on the battlefield.

PRE(forward) + VAIL(strength) — the prevailing champion keeps his strength ahead of everyone else.

The prevailing snail crossed the finish line while the sleepy rabbit never woke up.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'praevalere' meaning 'to be stronger or superior,' composed of 'prae' (before/in front) and 'valere' (to be strong). The word entered English through Old French 'prevail' in the 14th century.
Breakdown
pre- (before/in front) + val (be strong, from Latin valere) + -ail (form suffix) + -ing (present participle) = prevailing
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Despite the prevailing belief that cats hate water, my cat loves taking baths.”
“The prevailing economic conditions make it difficult for young people to buy homes.”
“The prevailing fashion trend seems to be wearing pajamas to grocery stores.”
“Scientists study prevailing ocean currents to predict climate patterns.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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