prep1

 
Pronunciation: /prɛp/

noun

informal
  • 1 [mass noun] British (in an independent school) schoolwork that is set to be done outside normal school hours.
  • (especially in a boarding school) a period set aside for doing homework or preparing for lessons.
  • 2 [as modifier] relating to education in a prep school: sixth-formers and prep pupils
  • 3North American a student in a prep school.

Origin:

mid 19th century: abbreviation of preparation