Definitions

1. noun

A supposed fact or occurrence that happened before another event, but which is not verifiable or accepted as true.

“The alleged alien sighting was presented as an antefact to justify the government’s decision to increase defense spending.”

2. noun

A fact or event that occurred before another event, especially one that is considered to be a cause or precursor to it.

“The drought that preceded the devastating wildfire was cited as an antefact by environmentalists to highlight the need for more stringent conservation measures.”