prevail
UK: prɪˈveɪl | US: prɪˈveɪl
vi. to prove more powerful or superior; triumph
vi. to be widespread or current (e.g., a custom)
vi. to persuade successfully (often followed by "on/upon")
prevail = pre<before> + vail<be strong>
- pre: From Latin prae- (before, ahead). In "prevail," it implies superiority or precedence.
- vail: From Latin valere (to be strong, have power). The root appears in words like valiant and valid.
Etymology Origin:
"Prevail" entered English via Old French prevaloir, from Latin praevalēre (to be stronger). The Latin prae- (before) + valēre (to be strong) originally meant "to have greater power." Over time, it broadened to include notions of triumph, dominance, and persuasion. The word’s evolution mirrors the logic of overcoming obstacles ("being strong before others").
Justice will prevail in the end.
A sense of optimism prevails among the team.
She prevailed upon him to change his mind.
Ancient traditions still prevail in this region.
Despite setbacks, their courage prevailed.