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.