prevailing
UK: prɪˈveɪlɪŋ | US: prɪˈveɪlɪŋ
adj. most common or widespread (e.g., a prevailing trend)
adj. having superior power or influence (e.g., prevailing winds)
adj. currently accepted or dominant (e.g., prevailing opinion)
prevailing = pre<before> + vail<be strong> + ing<adjective suffix>
- pre: From Latin prae-, meaning "before" or "ahead."
- vail: From Latin valere, meaning "to be strong" or "to have power."
- ing: An English suffix forming present participles or adjectives.
Etymology Origin:
The word "prevailing" traces back to Latin praevalere (to be stronger or more powerful), combining prae- (before) and valere (to be strong). Over time, it evolved through Old French prevailir before entering Middle English as "prevail," meaning "to triumph" or "to dominate." The suffix -ing was later added to form the adjective, emphasizing ongoing dominance or widespread influence.
The prevailing winds in this region come from the west.
Her prevailing optimism inspired everyone around her.
The prevailing theory suggests climate change is human-induced.
Despite opposition, his argument became the prevailing view.
The prevailing fashion this season favors bold colors.