preshrink

[ pree-shringk ]

verb (used with object)

, pre·shrank or, often, pre·shrunk; pre·shrunk or pre·shrunk·en; pre·shrink·ing.

1. to subject (textiles, garments, etc.) to a shrinking process before marketing to minimize subsequent shrinkage.

Word History and Origins

Origin of preshrink¹

First recorded in 1935–40; pre- + shrink

Example Sentences

I like breezy, lighter-weight cottons and linens, so I always preshrink them before hanging.

From Washington Post