Definition of Prevalent. Meaning of Prevalent. Synonyms of Prevalent
Here you will find one or more explanations in English for the word Prevalent.
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Definition of Prevalent
Prevalent Prevalent Prev"a*lent, a. [L. praevalens, -entis, p. pr. of
praevalere. See Prevail.]
1. Gaining advantage or superiority; having superior force,
influence, or efficacy; prevailing; predominant;
successful; victorious.
Brennus told the Roman embassadors, that prevalent
arms were as good as any title. --Sir W.
Raleigh.
2. Most generally received or current; most widely adopted or
practiced; also, generally or extensively existing;
widespread; prevailing; as, a prevalent observance;
prevalent disease.
This was the most received and prevalent opinion.
--Woodward.
Syn: Prevailing; predominant; successful; efficacious;
powerful.
Usage: Prevalent, Prevailing. What customarily prevails
is prevalent; as, a prevalent fashion. What actually
prevails is prevailing; as, the prevailing winds are
west. Hence, prevailing is the livelier and more
pointed word, since it represents a thing in action.
It is sometimes the stronger word, since a thing may
prevail sufficiently to be called prevalent, and yet
require greater strength to make it actually
prevailing.
