1. existing or occurring before the development of writing or literacy
Usage: anthropology; archaeology
2. not yet able to read or write
Usage: education

Examples

• Archaeologists study preliterate societies through artifacts and oral traditions.
• The preliterate culture passed down stories through generations of storytellers.
• Preliterate children often show interest in books through pictures and symbols.
• Many preliterate civilizations developed complex mathematical and astronomical knowledge.
• The teacher worked with preliterate students to develop basic reading skills.
• Preliterate societies relied on memory and oral communication for preserving information.