preloved
Americanadjective
adjective
Usage
What does preloved mean? Preloved is an informal word that describes an item that was previously owned. Preloved is a euphemism, which is a milder way to say something to make it less harsh or blunt. Preloved is typically used to describe something for sale to avoid calling it used or secondhand. Example: I prefer buying preloved dishes—they just have more character than the cheap new stuff they sell these days.
Etymology
Origin of preloved
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Ultimately it’s better for the environment if clothes get a new life through a preloved section, rather than piling up in a landfill.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 3, 2026
H&M has worked with a small secondhand store, Awoke Vintage, for its preloved section in SoHo, but some big retailers are sourcing the preloved pieces themselves or have customers hand them in—sometimes for store credit.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 3, 2026
Wearing preloved clothing carries memory forward and also calls us back.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 18, 2024
Contestants in this year's show will dress in a mix of new and preloved clothing.
From BBC ● May 23, 2022
It’ll be more affordable when it’s been gently preloved.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 15, 2020
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
