preset

1 of 2

verb

pre·​set ˈprē-ˌset How to pronounce preset (audio)
preset; presetting

transitive verb

: to set in advance

preset

2 of 2

noun

: something (such as a radio station) preprogrammed into a device

Examples of preset in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Verb
For our protagonist, an officer and a hacker preset were available, but no control over the playable character's (and their sibling's) appearance was given. Fran Ruiz, Space.com, 27 Apr. 2026 The program has preset PiP grids—from 2 by 2 to 10 by 10—and your clip tracks snap to fill the resulting spaces. PC Magazine, 15 Nov. 2025
Noun
On the Bluetooth side, the EQ presets are limited to five. Gieson Cacho, Mercury News, 14 May 2026 The presets are designed to handle different textures and recipes, helping standardize results without requiring manual adjustment. New Atlas, 5 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for preset

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1929, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1953, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of preset was in 1929

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Preset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preset. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

preset

verb
pre·​set
(ˈ)prē-ˈset
preset; presetting
: to set ahead of time
preset the oven to 350 degrees
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