preorder

American  

[pree-awr-der] / ˈpriˌɔr dər /

Or pre-order

verb (used with or without object)

1. to order for purchase in advance, as before an event, restaurant meal, or release of a product.

   She called the restaurant before lunch to preorder.

   Preorder your signed print now, as only 2,500 copies are being made.

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noun

1. an act or instance of ordering something in advance.

   The new handbook is now available for preorder.

   The game’s future looked bright, with thousands of preorders already piled up.

2. something that has been ordered in advance.

   If you haven’t yet received your preorder, please email us.

Etymology

Origin of preorder

First recorded in 1640–50; pre- ( def. ) + order ( def. )

Example Sentences

The latest fervor is tied to an email sent to a Best Buy affiliate offering instructions about a preorder starting on May 18.

From Barron's • May 14, 2026

The new Bilt card goes live Feb. 7, and existing cardholders have until Friday, Jan. 30, to preorder it and maintain their current credit-card number.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 29, 2026

Starting Tuesday, you can apply to its early adopter program and preorder one for $20,000, with delivery expected in 2026.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 28, 2025

In the meantime, fans could preorder the album in various formats, or click an “add all to cart” button to simplify the process for hoarders — sorry, collectors.

From Salon • Aug. 20, 2025

“Actually, we’re here to find a present for Dill’s mom for her birthday, but while I’m here, could I place a preorder for Deathstorm.”

From "The Serpent King" by Jeff Zentner

Related Words

• set up