pregame

American  

[pree-geym] / ˈpriˌgeɪm /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or happening in the period just before a sports game.

   The coach was interviewed in a pregame broadcast.

2. noting or relating to the consumption of liquor before attending a party or other event.

   pregame drinking.

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noun

1. an event or broadcast relating to and occurring just before a sports game.

   Thirty people attended the pregame.

verb (used with or without object)

pregamed, pregaming

1. to drink liquor before going to (a party, game, or other event).

   We pregamed at my house to save some money.

Etymology

Origin of pregame

First recorded in 1910–15; pre- + game ¹

Example Sentences

When told of the injury update during his pregame news conference, Redick was not fazed.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 25, 2026

Auriemma forcefully reprimanded Staley for a perceived pregame slight surrounding the pregame handshake.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Riley ended his talk with what was essentially an inspirational pregame speech as the Lakers prepared to play the rival he finally conquered, those Boston Celtics.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 22, 2026

With Yamamoto’s time being limited with the Dodgers before the WBC, Roberts spoke pregame Saturday about what he hopes to see from his star pitcher in the time leading up to the event.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 21, 2026

The game announcer has started the official pregame ritual, reading off something about good sportsmanship and honorable gameplay.

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu