preform
Americanverb (used with object)
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to form beforehand.
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to determine or decide beforehand.
to preform an opinion.
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to shape or fashion beforehand.
to preform a mold.
noun
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any of various uncompleted objects of manufacture after preliminary shaping.
Usage
What does preform mean? As a verb, preform means to make or form something before something else happens, or during a preliminary stage. As a noun, a preform is an object in its initial form, before it is completed with additional work. When used as a verb, preform can refer to forming an abstract thing, such as an idea or opinion, or a tangible thing, such as a sculpture, piece of clothing, or other manufactured item. When used as a noun, preform typically refers to a physical object (like that sculpture or piece of clothing) that is intended to be finished with additional crafting. It is sometimes hyphenated as pre-form. Example: Don’t preform an opinion about Grace before you even meet her.
Other Word Forms
- nonpreformed adjective
Etymology
Origin of preform
From the Latin word praefōrmāre, dating back to 1595–1605. See pre-, form
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.
Among those set to preform are Sting, P!nk,
From BBC • Jan. 30, 2025
According to the report, the pathologists will preform the autopsies and disclose both preliminary findings as well as final reports to the families who request them.
From Fox News • Feb. 23, 2022
Last year, some 2.5 million pilgrims took part, but this year as few as 1,000 pilgrims already residing in Saudi Arabia were allowed to preform the hajj.
From Washington Times • Jul. 31, 2020
Carter said, adding that it is clear that at least one of the firms selected could not preform.
From Washington Post • May 6, 2020
She has tested the wanderer, Alcinous can now preform the ceremonies.
From Homer's Odyssey A Commentary by Snider, Denton Jaques
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.
