When two people go out
as friends, but one or both parties
harbour feelings for the other. Such meetings are used to gauge one's feelings for the other, and usually
precede the first date.
William likes Kate. William and Kate regularly meet up
as friends and both enjoy each other's company. William slowly develops feelings for Kate. These meetings are known as "pre-dates" and this period is known as "
pre-dating".
After which, William and/or Kate
propose to go on their first date.