1. generally accepted; widespread: the prevailing opinion. 2. most frequent or conspicuous; predominant: the prevailing wind is from the north.

PREVAILING definition: 1. existing in a particular place or at a particular time: 2. a wind that usually blows in a…. Learn more.

PREVAILING definition: predominant. See examples of prevailing used in a sentence.

The meaning of PREVAIL is to gain ascendancy through strength or superiority : triumph. How to use prevail in a sentence.

Discover everything about the word "PREVAILING" in English: meanings, translations, synonyms, pronunciations, examples, and grammar insights - all in one comprehensive guide.

Definition of prevailing adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2025 pre•vail•ing (pri vā′ ling), adj. predominant: prevailing winds. generally current: the prevailing opinion. having superior …

Prevailing refers to something that is most common or widespread, dominant or having superior power or influence, generally accepted or being in effect or use at a particular time.

The adjective prevailing comes from the Latin words prae, meaning before, and valere, meaning to be strong or have power. The English word maintains that sense of strength and predominance.

1. Generally current; widespread: the prevailing attitude. 2. Blowing usually or most frequently from a given direction: a prevailing easterly wind.