pre-Columbian
adjective
pre-Co·lum·bi·an
ˌprē-kə-ˈləm-bē-ən 
: preceding or belonging to the time before the arrival of Columbus in America
Examples of pre-Columbian in a Sentence
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According to the Mexican government, Teotihuacan was once one of the largest cities in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, and the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon form the twin centers of the ancient ruins there.
—
Mauricio Torres, CNN Money, 23 May 2025
In contrast, the Alma (Soul) collection is starkly simple, playing with the smooth, organic shape of a kernel of corn — a rich cultural symbol from pre-Columbian times to the present.
—Janelle Conaway, New York Times, 20 May 2025
Heavily inspired by pre-Columbian Central American architecture, Hollyhock is considered to be one of Wright's most experimental works and is best known for the hollyhock motifs (Barnsdall's favorite flower) that visitors can spot around the property.
—Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 17 May 2025
The resin works symbolize our pre-Columbian origins through their designs, while also reflecting our present.
—Gabriela Molina Riascos, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Apr. 2025
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Mauricio Torres, CNN Money, 23 May 2025
In contrast, the Alma (Soul) collection is starkly simple, playing with the smooth, organic shape of a kernel of corn — a rich cultural symbol from pre-Columbian times to the present.
—Janelle Conaway, New York Times, 20 May 2025
Heavily inspired by pre-Columbian Central American architecture, Hollyhock is considered to be one of Wright's most experimental works and is best known for the hollyhock motifs (Barnsdall's favorite flower) that visitors can spot around the property.
—Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 17 May 2025
The resin works symbolize our pre-Columbian origins through their designs, while also reflecting our present.
—Gabriela Molina Riascos, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for pre-Columbian
Cite this Entry
“Pre-Columbian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pre-Columbian. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.
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