pregame

[ pree-geym ]

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.

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)

, pre·gamed, pre·gam·ing.

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

   We pregamed at my house to save some money.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pregame¹

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

Example Sentences

Starting with the 2025-26 season, “Inside the NBA” will have pregame, postgame and halftime editions during ESPN’s coverage of the NBA Finals, Conference Finals and playoff games.

From Los Angeles Times

Foster said he was confident in Bhaghani’s ability to connect on the long field goal based on the lack of wind at the Rose Bowl and the way Bhaghani had been booming kicks in pregame warmups.

From Los Angeles Times

“Basketball is, to me, an emotional game. I’m a competitive person, I’m a passionate person,” Redick said pregame Friday.

From Los Angeles Times

Pregame, Redick said the ups and downs of the NBA season and the problems that emerge present exciting problems to solve.

From Los Angeles Times

As Lehmann noted, the staff tries “to cover as many scenarios as we can, good and bad,” in their pregame prep.

From Los Angeles Times