1.
[syn: preexistent, pre-existent, preexisting, pre-existing]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Preexist \Pre`["e]x*ist"\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. Pre["e]xisted;
p. pr. & vb. n. Pre["e]xisting.]
To exist previously; to exist before something else; to exist
before the current activity commenced; as, preexisting
illnesses are not covered by this insurance policy. [Also
spelled pre-exist.]
[1913 Webster + WordNet 1.5 + PJC]
WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):
pre-existing
adj 1: existing previously or before something; "variations on
pre-existent musical themes" [syn: preexistent, pre-
existent, preexisting, pre-existing]