v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Preëngaged p. pr. & vb. n. Preëngaging ] To engage by previous contract; to bind or attach previously; to preoccupy. [ 1913 Webster ]

But he was preëngaged by former ties. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. Prior engagement, obligation, or attachment, as by contract, promise, or affection. [ 1913 Webster ]

My preëngagements to other themes were not unknown to those for whom I was to write. Boyle. [ 1913 Webster ]