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preformed

preformed

4.4
Made in a set shape before use
  • adjective
  • /ˌpriːˈfɔːrmd/
translation icon : prefabricado
  • The artist used preformed clay pieces to speed up the sculpture process.

Examples

  • The builders chose preformed sections for the new bridge to ensure a quicker assembly.

  • Eva has put a piece of compo that has been preformed and she is softening the compo in this steam box.

  • Because as you can see, this is not preformed lecturing of something that I've already published.

  • These preformed panels will make it easier to install the walls of the greenhouse.

Synonyms

ready-made
vspreformed
4 3.9

An item like a shirt or chair made before you buy it

is focused on advance production generally, not specifically consumer goods
prefab
vspreformed
4 5.1

Made in separate parts so people can move them and put them together on site

is the general idea of advance making without stressing standard sections
premade
vspreformed
3 2.7

Made before and ready to use

emphasizes prior production but not the ready or shaped aspect
prefabricated
vspreformed
  • Specialized
2 4.3

Made earlier in parts so it can be quickly put together or used

covers all advance making, not only sectional or quick assembly forms
precast
vspreformed
  • Specialized
1 6.0

Concrete parts made in their final shape before delivery to the building site

is more general, not limited to casting or construction materials
preshaped
vspreformed
  • Specialized
4.4

Made before use so it already has the right outline

is broader, meaning anything produced in advance not only shape focused
pre-manufactured
vspreformed
  • Specialized
3.7

Made in a factory before being assembled at the final site

is similar but not limited to factory production as its source

Antonyms

4 5.4

Not fully developed or given a clear shape

Surface Forms

preformed positive

Morphology

preformed = preform (transparent) = pre + form + ed

The adjective is a regular past-participial formation from the verb 'preform' meaning 'form beforehand'.

Etymology

The word preformed comes from pre- meaning 'before' and form meaning 'shape'. So it means 'shaped ahead of time', which is why a preformed part is made before you use or fit it.