an act or instance of warming up

The spectators came early to watch the players go through their warmups. The dancers went through a quick warmup.

the period before a radio or television broadcast when the audience is entertained so that it will be more receptive to the actual program.

Also, warm up. the time lapse between turning on the power in an electronic component or device and the time it is operable.

Often, warmups. any apparel, esp. a sweat suit, worn over other clothing for warmth, chiefly in sports or during preliminary exercise.

noun

prelude , thaw