preliterature

preliterature

English

Etymology

pre- +‎ literature

Adjective

preliterature (not comparable)

1. Before the development of literature.

   Synonym: preliterary

   • 1993, Charles S. Van Toller, ‎G. H. Dodd, Fragrance: The psychology and biology of perfume (page 1)

     She also reminds us that in contrast to preliterature societies, the industrial societies have a distinct lack of rituals involving the sense of smell.

Noun

preliterature (uncountable)

1. Forms of art etc. that existed before literature.
   • 1981, Erling B. Holtsmark, Tarzan and Tradition: Classical Myth in Popular Literature (page 140)

     The notion of passion as a fire is ancient, its origins lost in preliterature.