predate

/pɹɪdˈeɪt/

/ˈpɹiˈdeɪt/, /pɹiˈdeɪt/

to predate

MAIN VERB

to exist or occur at an earlier time than something else

synonyms : antedate

antonyms : postdate

prey on or hunt for

synonyms : prey

be earlier in time; go back further

synonyms : antecede

antonyms : postdate

come before

synonyms : precede

Examples

1. In fact, debt even predates the invention of money.

2. Now, the major faiths of the Middle East predate the borders and conflicts of today.

3. Maybe even predating beer.

4. The animosity between Hindus and Muslims actually predates the British empire.