Prelude Definition
prĕlyo͝od, prālo͝od, prē-
preluded, preludes, preluding
noun
preludes
Anything serving as the introduction to a principal event, action, performance, etc.; preliminary part; preface; opening.
Webster's New World
A piece or movement that serves as an introduction to another section or composition and establishes the key, such as one that precedes a fugue, opens a suite, or precedes a church service.
American Heritage
An introductory instrumental composition, such as the first movement of a suite or the overture to an opera.
Webster's New World
Since the 19th cent., any short, romantic composition.
Webster's New World
A similar but independent composition for the piano.
American Heritage
Synonyms:
verb
preluded, preludes, preluding
To serve as or be a prelude (to)
Webster's New World
To introduce by or play (as) a prelude.
Webster's New World
To serve as a prelude or introduction.
American Heritage
Origin of Prelude
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Medieval Latin praelūdium from Latin praelūdere to play beforehand prae- pre- lūdere to play leid- in Indo-European roots
From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition
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From Middle French prelude (“singing to test a musical instrument"), from Latin preludium, from earlier Latin praeludere.
From Wiktionary
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