Pronunciation: [pɹɪpˈɛns] (IPA) 
Prepense is a rarely used word that means "premeditated". Its spelling is unique because of the "pense" ending, which is pronounced like "pahns" (pɑns) in IPA phonetic transcription. The "pre" prefix is pronounced like "pree" (pri) and means "before". Therefore, prepense means "thought out beforehand". While it is not commonly used in everyday speech, it may appear in legal or literary contexts.
Prepense is an adjective with its origin rooted in the Middle English word "pens" meaning "thought" or "intent." It is most commonly used in legal contexts to describe an act that is committed purposefully or with prior thought and intent.
The term is often associated with the concept of "malice aforethought" in criminal law, indicating a premeditated and deliberate intention to commit a wrongful act. A crime committed with prepense is one where the perpetrator consciously plans or considers their actions beforehand. This intention can be characterized by a carefully formulated plan, making it distinct from an impulsive or spur-of-the-moment act.
In broader applications, prepense can also describe a decision or action that is done intentionally and deliberately, regardless of legal implications. It implies a level of premeditation and thoughtful consideration rather than something done impulsively or spontaneously.
The word prepense can further connote an element of careful forward-thinking and reflection, suggesting that an individual has thoroughly thought through the consequences and implications of their actions. It signifies a certain level of intentionality and self-awareness in decision-making, often reflecting a mature or calculated approach.
In summary, prepense refers to an act or decision made deliberately and with prior thought or intent, often having legal connotations. It carries the sense of forethought, reflection, and active planning, setting it apart from impulsive or spontaneous actions.
Preconceived; premeditated.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "prepense" has its origins in the Latin word "praepensus", which means "weighed beforehand" or "considered in advance". The Latin word is a combination of the prefix "prae-" meaning "before" or "in advance", and the verb "pensus", which means "weighed" or "considered". In English, the word "prepense" first appeared around the 15th century and was used to describe something that was considered or planned in advance, especially in regard to a thought or intention. Over time, the word has come to be primarily associated with the legal term "malice aforethought", referring to a premeditated or intentional act.
