As a noun, prejudice is an unfair opinion or feeling, often negative, formed about a person or group before knowing enough facts. As a verb, to prejudice someone is to influence them unfairly or harm their chances.
“Prejudice” comes from Latin *praeiudicium*, “previous judgment,” from *prae-* (“before”) + *judicium* (“judgment”). It literally means judging before the trial.
Try Another Word