precontract

[ noun pree-kon-trakt; verb pree-kuhn-trakt, -kon-trakt ]

noun

1. a preexisting contract that legally prevents a person from making another contract of the same nature.
2. (formerly) such an agreement constituting a legally binding betrothal.

verb (used with object)

1. to bind by means of a precontract.
2. to contract for or agree to do (something) by means of a precontract.

verb (used without object)

1. to make a precontract.

precontract

noun

1. a contract or arrangement made beforehand, esp a betrothal

verb

1. to betroth or enter into a betrothal by previous agreement
2. to make (an agreement, etc) by prior arrangement

Other Words From

• precon·tractive adjective
• pre·con·trac·tu·al [pree-k, uh, n-, trak, -choo-, uh, l], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of precontract¹

1375–1425; late Middle English (noun); pre-, contract

Example Sentences

In soccer, players are allowed to sign a precontract with another club, free of any hefty transfer fees that would weigh down a potential deal.

From Washington Post

The ostensible reason for the divorce was a precontract between Anne and Francis of Lorraine.

From Project Gutenberg

She alleged a precontract on the part of her husband, Angus, which was never proved.

From Project Gutenberg