preselect

[ pree-si-lekt ]

verb (used with object)

1. to select in advance; choose beforehand.

Other Words From

• prese·lection noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of preselect¹

First recorded in 1860–65; pre- + select

Example Sentences

"While choosing mates, they can preselect for males of superior genetic quality and then bias sperm storage to ensure that the most compatible of these fertilize their eggs. This approach might give them the best of both worlds."

From Science Daily

In many instances, a salvage yard will have photographs of their inventory online, so you can preselect before making a trip.

From Seattle Times

Jones, a philosophy professor, frequently presents her students with ethical conundrums, such as whether potential parents should preselect embryos with desirable traits.

From Washington Post

“Seriously, they should preselect who can come here.”

From New York Times

“It is plaintiff’s theory of the case that since the start of the Sound Transit Light Rail System, King County management … have created and repeatedly modified a promotional system that allows them to preselect the employees they wish to promote, which has resulted in discrimination toward persons of color who are not considered the stereotypical promotional candidate,” wrote Brown’s attorney, Darryl Parker, in a trial brief.

From Seattle Times