Meaning & Definition of word "Prelude"

Prelude

/ˈprɛljuːd/

noun:

  • 1. An action or event that serves as an introduction to something more important.
    • Example: The sudden snowfall was a prelude to the harsh winter that followed.
  • 2. A preliminary performance or event, especially in music.
    • Example: The concert began with a gentle prelude that captivated the audience.
  • 3. A short introductory piece of music or writing.
    • Example: The composer's prelude set the tone for the entire symphony.

verb:

  • 1. To serve as a prelude to; to introduce.
    • Example: The opening scene preluded the dramatic events that were to unfold.

Etymology

From Latin 'praeludere', meaning 'to play before'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

prelude to:

An introduction to something that follows.

musical prelude:

A short piece of music played before a larger composition.

Related Words

prologue:

An introductory section of a literary work.

foreword:

An introductory note in a book, typically written by someone other than the author.

Slang Meanings of prelude

Meaning: An opening act or introductory phase, often used in casual contexts.

Example Sentence: The party was just a prelude to the big concert later that night.