First Known Use: 1578
Dictionary
prolepsis
noun pro·lep·sis \prō-ˈlep-səs\
plural pro·lep·ses\-ˌsēz\
Definition of PROLEPSIS
: anticipation: as a : the representation or assumption of a future act or development as if presently existing or accomplished b : the application of an adjective to a noun in anticipation of the result of the action of the verb (as in “while yon slow oxen turn the furrowed plain”)
— pro·lep·tic \-ˈlep-tik\ adjective
— pro·lep·ti·cal·ly \-ti-k(ə-)lē\ adverb
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of PROLEPSIS
Greek prolēpsis, from prolambanein to take beforehand, from pro- before + lambanein to take — more at latch
Learn More About PROLEPSIS
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: proletarianPrevious Word in the Dictionary: prolegomenonAll Words Near: prolepsis
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up prolepsis? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).