prevalent

[prev-uh-luhnt]

adjective

1. widespread; of wide extent or occurrence; in general use or acceptance.

   Synonyms: common, far-reaching
   Antonyms: rare, uncommon

2. having the superiority or ascendancy.

3. Archaic.,  effectual or efficacious.

prevalent

/ ˈprɛvələnt /

adjective

1. widespread or current

2. superior in force or power; predominant

Other Word Forms

• prevalence noun
• prevalentness noun
• prevalently adverb
• nonprevalent adjective
• nonprevalently adverb
• unprevalent adjective
• unprevalently adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of prevalent¹

First recorded in 1570–80; from Latin praevalent-, stem of praevalēns “having superior force,” present participle of praevalēre “to be more able, have superior force”; prevail

Word History and Origins

Origin of prevalent¹

C16 (in the sense: powerful): from Latin praevalens very strong, from praevalēre: see _prevail

Example Sentences

These views are widely prevalent among those currently inclined to vote for Reform but are often out of kilter with the population as a whole.

From BBC

Dr Fowler points out that more young women than men go on to higher education, where socially liberal attitudes are more prevalent.

From BBC

Menendez said it wasn’t until later that he realized the larger impact that cellphones could have, despite how prevalent they could be in prison.

From Los Angeles Times

When the couple purchased the 900-square-foot Craftsman in late 2021, their front and back lawn were primarily brown and dead, and concrete was prevalent.

From Los Angeles Times

"Ketamine is an extremely dangerous drug that is becoming more and more prevalent in the UK," said Chanel.

From BBC

Related Words

• common 
• commonplace 
• everyday 
• extensive 
• frequent 
• new 
• normal 
• popular 
• prevailing 
• rampant 
• rife 
• ubiquitous 
• universal 

When To Use

What are other ways to say prevalent?

Something that is prevalent is widespread or in general use or acceptance. How is this adjective different from prevailing and current? Find out on Thesaurus.com.