ˈprē+ˌ- noun
Etymology: pre- + trial
: a conference preliminary to a hearing or trial on the merits where a judge, referee, examiner, arbitrator, or other quasi-judicial officer endeavors to simplify the issues of law or fact in a case by ascertaining what is admitted, what is contested, whether certain matters may be stipulated thereby avoiding the expense of proof in order to save time and expense at the trial