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.