rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryRoot: prae-
Latin

prae-

before, in front of

Forms

  • prae-
  • pre- — The usual English form, often transmitted through French.

Origin

Reconstructed Proto-Indo-European *prai, ‘before,’ related to an older family of words for forward position.

Note

The same relationship can locate something earlier in time or ahead in space.

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verb

precipitate

prih-SIP-ih-tayt/prɪˈsɪpɪteɪt/

To cause an event to happen suddenly or sooner than expected.

The first tipping domino precipitates a cascade through the waiting row.

A single unstable domino tips into a waiting row and suddenly triggers a cascade of falling dominoes; first initiating impact clear, realistic ivory-and-black dominoes, no arrows or words.
Etymology
preLatinbefore, in front of
+cipitLatinhead
+ateLatinhaving or having undergone something

The “headfirst” image underlies throwing or rushing headlong. Figuratively, hurling someone into a condition became causing an event to happen suddenly or hurrying its beginning.

In context

Oculus Imperia54:55
their own weaknesses that had been exploited in order to precipitate the slaughter
The Betrayal at Calth: The Complete History (Warhammer 40,000 & Horus Heresy Lore)

More examples

  • The leaked memo precipitates the director's resignation.
  • Her complaint precipitated a review of the company's hiring practices.
  • Cutting off negotiations risks precipitating a strike.

Forms

precipitate · precipitates · precipitated · precipitating

Similar words

trigger
Trigger emphasizes setting an event or process in motion.
spark
Spark suggests starting a reaction, often conflict or excitement.
hasten
Hasten speeds something up without necessarily causing it to begin.