precognition

noun

pre·​cog·​ni·​tion ˌprē-(ˌ)käg-ˈni-shən How to pronounce precognition (audio)
Synonyms of precognitionnext
: clairvoyance relating to an event or state not yet experienced
precognitive
(ˌ)prē-ˈkäg-nə-tiv How to pronounce precognition (audio)
adjective

Examples of precognition in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ancient oracles claim to have precognition, an insight into the future. — Vipin Bharathan, Forbes, 9 Mar. 2025 Ancient oracles claim to have precognition, an insight into the future. — Vipin Bharathan, Forbes, 9 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin praecognition-, praecognitio, from Latin praecognoscere to know beforehand, from prae- + cognoscere to know — more at cognition

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of precognition was in the 15th century

Rhymes for precognition

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Browse Nearby Words

precogitate
precognition
precognize
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Cite this Entry

“Precognition.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/precognition. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

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Medical Definition

precognition

noun
pre·​cog·​ni·​tion ˌprē-(ˌ)käg-ˈnish-ən How to pronounce precognition (audio)
: clairvoyance relating to an event or state not yet experienced compare psychokinesis, telekinesis
precognitive
-ˈkäg-nət-iv How to pronounce precognition (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on precognition

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for precognition

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about precognition

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