precontract

American  

[pree-kon-trakt, pree-kuhn-trakt, -kon-trakt] / priˈkɒn trækt, ˌpri kənˈtrækt, -ˈkɒn trækt /

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.

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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 British  

noun

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

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verb

1. to betroth or enter into a betrothal by previous agreement

2. to make (an agreement, etc) by prior arrangement

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• precontractual
  adjective
• precontractive
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of precontract

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

Example Sentences

The Greek forward signed a precontract in January and wasn’t scheduled to join the team until July.

From Washington Post • Apr. 13, 2022

By signing a precontract, Fountas is slated to arrive this summer, when his deal with Austrian club Rapid Vienna expires.

From Washington Post • Jan. 25, 2022

He signed what in soccer parlance is called a precontract, which allows players to pursue new teams within six months of their current deal expiring.

From Washington Post • Jan. 24, 2022

A one-hour precontract inspection ranges from $195 to $275 depending on house size.

From Washington Post • Apr. 7, 2021

I stammered that I knew him—could have wished— 'Our king expects—was there no precontract?

From The Princess by Tennyson, Alfred Tennyson, Baron