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preset

American  
[pree-set, pree-set] / priˈsɛt, ˈpriˌsɛt /

verb (used with object)

preset, presetting
  1. to set beforehand.

  2. to set (an electric or electronic appliance) to become activated at a designated time.

    We preset the coffeemaker to go on at 6 a.m.

  3. to adjust (a connector, switch, or the like) so that when activated it will perform a designated function.

    The tuning buttons on the radio are preset to my favorite FM stations.


adjective

  1. set in advance.

    a preset radio adjusted to receive certain stations.

  2. (of the guidance system of a missile or the course of flight it determines) set before launching to reach a specific destination without any alteration in response to signals from the ground.

noun

  1. a knob or button that activates a preset appliance.

    Just push the preset and coffee will be ready when you get up.

  2. a similar device on a radio that can be activated to tune in a preselected station.

preset British  
/ prɪˈsɛt /

verb

  1. to set (a timing device) so that something begins to operate at the time specified

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

noun

  1. electronics a control, such as a variable resistor, that is not as accessible as the main controls and is used to set initial conditions

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • presettable adjective

Etymology

Origin of preset

First recorded in 1930–35; pre- + set

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.

Rather than relying on preset rules, the robot learned through observation.

From Science Daily

On a prediction market, however, each event contract requires two traders to take the opposite sides of every bet, so the parlays have to be preset combos.

From Barron's

Robinhood earlier this week launched a “preset combo” product within its prediction markets offerings, which closely resembles a parlay bet.

From The Wall Street Journal

The facility that lets big dealers hand over Treasurys and get overnight cash at a preset rate.

From MarketWatch

"We strongly refute the accusations," TikTok said in a statement sent to AFP, adding it offers "more than 50 features and preset settings designed specifically to support the safety and well-being of teenagers".

From Barron's