The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Precontract \Pre`con*tract"\, v. i.
To make a previous contract or agreement. --Ayliffe.
[1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Precontract \Pre*con"tract\, n.
A contract preceding another; especially (Law), a contract of
marriage which, according to the ancient law, rendered void a
subsequent marriage solemnized in violation of it. --Abbott.
[1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Precontract \Pre`con*tract"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p.
Precontracted; p. pr. & vb. n. Precontracting.]
To contract, engage, or stipulate previously.
[1913 Webster]
Bouvier's Law Dictionary, Revised 6th Ed (1856):
PRECONTRACT. An engagement entered into by a person, which renders him
unable to enter into another; as a promise or covenant of marriage to be had
afterwards. When made per verba de presenti, it is in fact a marriage, and
in that case the party making it cannot marry another person.