n. [ L. praevalentia: cf. F. prévalence. See Prevail. ] The quality or condition of being prevalent; superior strength, force, or influence; general existence, reception, or practice; wide extension; as, the prevalence of virtue, of a fashion, or of a disease; the prevalence of a rumor. [ 1913 Webster ]

The duke better knew what kind of argument were of prevalence with him. Clarendon. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. See Prevalence. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. [ L. praevalens, -entis, p. pr. of praevalere. See Prevail. ] 1. Gaining advantage or superiority; having superior force, influence, or efficacy; prevailing; predominant; successful; victorious. [ 1913 Webster ]

Brennus told the Roman embassadors, that prevalent arms were as good as any title. Sir W. Raleigh. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Most generally received or current; most widely adopted or practiced; also, generally or extensively existing; widespread; prevailing; as, a prevalent observance; prevalent disease. [ 1913 Webster ]

This was the most received and prevalent opinion. Woodward. [ 1913 Webster ]

Syn. -- Prevailing; predominant; successful; efficacious; powerful. -- Prevalent, Prevailing. What customarily prevails is prevalent; as, a prevalent fashion. What actually prevails is prevailing; as, the prevailing winds are west. Hence, prevailing is the livelier and more pointed word, since it represents a thing in action. It is sometimes the stronger word, since a thing may prevail sufficiently to be called prevalent, and yet require greater strength to make it actually prevailing. [ 1913 Webster ]

adv. In a prevalent manner. Prior. [ 1913 Webster ]