adjective

prevalent

prevalent, widespread, common

This disease is prevalent among young children.

This disease is prevalent amongst young children.

The prevalent opinion is that we should proceed.

The prevalent opinion is that we should proceed.

((among/in sb./sth.)) prevalent (among/in sb./sth.) This disease is prevalent among children.

Synonyms: widespread, common, rampant; Antonyms: rare, uncommon

From Latin 'praevalere' meaning 'to be stronger, have greater power', from prae- 'before' + valere 'be strong'.

Think of 'prevailing winds' – they are the most common or widespread winds in an area.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.