In plain English
It means an order can be placed for the product ahead of its official release. The product is not yet in its regular available state, but ordering is already open.
In context
Here, "Pre-order" communicates that the item can be ordered now even though it has not yet reached its official release and regular availability.
- Situation
- Browsing product availability, variants, stock, condition, and seller information
- What it communicates
- labels the item as orderable before regular sale availability.
Meaning limits
By itself, this status does not say when the product will become officially released and available.
Examples
“The cookbook is on pre-order, so customers can buy it now even though it has not been officially released.”
“Until its official release, the game remains available for pre-order.”