preoperational

English

Etymology

pre- +‎ operational

Adjective

preoperational (not comparable)

1. Prior to a surgical operation.

   Synonyms: preoperative, preop

   Coordinate term: postoperational

   preoperational anxiety

2. In or relating to a Piagetian phase of child development characterized by sparse and logically inadequate mental operations and inability to reason or work with symbols.

Related terms

• preoperative
• preoperatory