What does the prefix de mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/diː/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Prefix

Definition

A prefix used to indicate removal, reversal, or opposition, often used to create new words.

Examples

• De-ice
• De-bit
• De-stress

Etymology

The prefix de- comes from the Old French “de-” and the Latin “de-” meaning “from” or “out of”.

Usage Notes

The prefix de- is often used to indicate removal or reversal, as in “de-rest” or “de-clutter”. It can also be used to indicate opposition, as in “de-ice” or “de-stress”.

Cultural References

The prefix de- appears in various words in popular culture, such as “de-flame” in music and “de-buzz” in marketing.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• To de-stress
• To de-construct
• To de-couple

Related Words or Phrases

• Re-
• Un-
• Anti-

Collocations

• de-ice a plane
• de-stress with yoga
• de-clutter a room

Frequency of Use

The prefix de- is a common prefix in English, used in many words across various fields.

Common Misspellings

• dis-
• e-
• un-