precontract

American  

[pree-kon-trakt, pree-kuhn-trakt, -kon-trakt] / priˈkɒn trækt, ˌpri kənˈtrækt, -ˈkɒn trækt /

noun

1. a preexisting contract that legally prevents a person from making another contract of the same nature.

2. (formerly) such an agreement constituting a legally binding betrothal.

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verb (used with object)

1. to bind by means of a precontract.

2. to contract for or agree to do (something) by means of a precontract.

verb (used without object)

1. to make a precontract.

precontract British  

noun

1. a contract or arrangement made beforehand, esp a betrothal

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verb

1. to betroth or enter into a betrothal by previous agreement

2. to make (an agreement, etc) by prior arrangement

Other Word Forms

• precontractive adjective
• precontractual adjective

Etymology

Origin of precontract

1375–1425; late Middle English (noun); pre-, contract

Example Sentences

The Greek forward signed a precontract in January and wasn’t scheduled to join the team until July.

From Washington Post • Apr. 13, 2022

Toronto FC’s acquisition of Italian winger Lorenzo Insigne introduced a soccer-centric term probably unfamiliar to casual fans: precontract.

From Washington Post • Feb. 25, 2022

By signing a precontract, Fountas is slated to arrive this summer, when his deal with Austrian club Rapid Vienna expires.

From Washington Post • Jan. 25, 2022

He signed what in soccer parlance is called a precontract, which allows players to pursue new teams within six months of their current deal expiring.

From Washington Post • Jan. 24, 2022

The condition of this obligation is suche, that if hereafter there shall not appere any lawfull lett or impediment, by reason of any precontract, &c., but that Willm.

From Biographical Essays by De Quincey, Thomas