précis

noun

pré·​cis prā-ˈsē How to pronounce précis (audio) ˈprā-(ˌ)sē How to pronounce précis (audio)
plural précis prā-ˈsēz How to pronounce précis (audio)
ˈprā-(ˌ)sēz
Synonyms of précisnext
: a concise summary of essential points, statements, or facts

Synonyms

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Examples of précis in a Sentence

a précis of the book's plot a précis of the bill that the legislature is currently considering
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The precis, however, is that modern Mexico is thrilling and thriving. — María José Gonzálvez, Vogue, 24 Oct. 2023 Editor in chief Stan Lee would often give Jack Kirby the precis of a plot, then leave it to the artist to lay out each page, sketch the appropriate pictures, and even write the narration and dialogue. — Michael Dirda, Washington Post, 8 Sep. 2023

Word History

Etymology

French, from précis precise

First Known Use

1760, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of précis was in 1760

Browse Nearby Words

precipitron
précis
precise
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Cite this Entry

“Précis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pr%C3%A9cis. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

précis

noun
pré·​cis prā-ˈsē How to pronounce précis (audio) ˈprā-sē How to pronounce précis (audio)
plural précis -ˈsēz How to pronounce précis (audio)
-sēz
: a brief summary of the essential points of something
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