Definition

To decide or determine something in advance, often in a way that is believed to be inevitable or predetermined.

Example

Many believe that their destinies are preordained and cannot be changed.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Do you believe that our choices are preordained?

I think some things are meant to happen, but we still have free will.

Yeah, it’s interesting to think about how much is actually preordained versus what we control.

Exactly! It makes life feel a bit more mysterious.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Preordain → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "ordinare" (meaning to arrange or order). The word "preordain" means to arrange or order something beforehand, often in a divine or predetermined context.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'arranged' ('ordinare') 'before' ('pre-') it happens — that's why preordain means to decide or arrange in advance.

Visually Confused Words