Homonym: prior (Previous)
The term "prior" refers to something that comes before another event or item in time or order. It is often used in various contexts, such as in legal settings, where a "prior conviction" indicates a previous legal judgment against an individual. In everyday language, it can describe any situation where one thing is considered before another.
In academic and research contexts, "prior" can also refer to prior knowledge or information that is already known before a new study or experiment begins. This prior knowledge can influence the outcomes and interpretations of new findings, making it an essential aspect of the scientific method.