Prequel
/ˈpriː.kwəl/noun
A literary or cinematic work that precedes the events of a previous work.
Did you know?The term 'prequel' emerged in the 20th century, but its roots suggest a world of stories lost before the main tale even begins, hinting at hidden narratives waiting to be unveiled.
Etymological Timeline
Late 19th Century
English
prequel
“A newly coined term combining 'pre-' (before) and 'sequel' (following), indicating a narrative that comes before another.”
14th Century
Latin
sequi
“To follow; the root of 'sequel', highlighting the concept of continuation in narratives.”
Old French
secuela
sequela
“A following or consequence, emphasizing the connection of events in storytelling.”
Ancient Latin
Latin
sequi
“To follow, which is at the heart of storytelling, weaving together tales in a sequence.”
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