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.
Vinted's preloved buying and selling community has grown rapidly with 17 million UK users - it says the "overwhelming majority" have a positive experience.
From BBC ● Aug. 18, 2026
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
Wearing preloved clothing carries memory forward and also calls us back.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 18, 2024
"The perception of preloved clothing has changed. Where it was once a case of only buying it if you couldn't afford anything else, it's now become trendy to wear second hand," Dr Khan explained.
From BBC ● May 23, 2022
It’ll be more affordable when it’s been gently preloved.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 15, 2020
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Get a wordDefinitions 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.
