1. in classical psychoanalytic theory, pertaining to the first stages of psychosexual development, before the development of the Oedipus complex during the phallic stage. During this phase, the mother is the exclusive love object of both sexes and the father is not yet considered either a rival or a love object.

2. more generally, denoting organization or functions before the onset of the Oedipus complex. See also prephallic.