preliterature

English

Etymology

From 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.