pre-dawn
UK: ˌpriːˈdɔːn | US: ˌpriˈdɔːn
adj. occurring or existing before dawn
n. the period immediately before dawn
The word "predawn" combines the prefix "pre-" (from Latin prae, meaning "before") with "dawn" (from Old English dagian, "to become day"). The prefix "pre-" is widely used in English to indicate precedence in time or position. "Dawn" originates from Germanic roots, evolving to describe the first light of day. Together, "predawn" logically denotes the time or conditions preceding daybreak, reflecting a clear chronological relationship.
The predawn sky was still dark but hinted at the coming sunrise.
She enjoyed the quiet solitude of her predawn runs.
Predawn temperatures often drop to their lowest point.
The birds began their predawn chorus just before 5 AM.
Military operations frequently start in the predawn hours for tactical advantage.