Prefix Meanings and Examples

The prefix 'ex' means 'out of' or 'from.' Example words: exit (to go out), export (to send goods out of a country).

She decided to exit the building quickly.

The prefix 'cent' means 'hundred.' Example words: century (a hundred years), percent (per hundred).

The painting is from the 18th century.

The prefix 'semi' means 'half' or 'partially.' Example words: semicircle (half of a circle), semiannual (occurring twice a year).

The children sat in a semicircle around the teacher.

The prefix 'sub' means 'under' or 'below.' Example words: submarine (underwater vessel), subway (underground train).

The submarine dove deep into the ocean.

The prefix 'tri' means 'three.' Example words: triangle (a shape with three sides), tripod (a stand with three legs).

The photographer set up the camera on a tripod.