English Prefixes, Definition and Examples; PREFIXES Prefixes are used to change the meaning of a word. A syllable word or group of syllables added to the beginning of a word. Prefixes help to add meaning to words and make it possible to create new words that are easily understood everywhere. Understanding a few prefix examples will help you understand the logic of new words and use them appropriately. For example, consider the prefix de-. This prefix means getting something back. It is usually added to a verb. You can then activate the verb. Likewise, you can parse, add to other