overture

The definition of an overture is an introduction, or an action that shows someone might be ready to take a certain action.

(noun)

An example of an overture is a suggestion that two people in disagreement seek mediation.

An overture is defined as the musical opening to an opera or classical concert.

(noun)

An example of an overture is the opening piece of music to Mozart's opera The Marriage of Figaro.

See overture in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

an introductory proposal or offer; indication of willingness to negotiate
1. a musical introduction to an opera or other large musical work
2. an independent orchestral composition of varying form
in Presbyterian churches, a proposal or question submitted as by the general assembly to the presbyteries
any introductory section

Origin: ME, an opening < OFr < VL *opertura < L apertura, aperture

to present as an overture

See overture in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

Music
a. An instrumental composition intended especially as an introduction to an extended work, such as an opera or oratorio.
b. A similar orchestral work intended for independent concert performance.
An introductory section or part, as of a poem; a prelude.
An act, offer, or proposal that indicates readiness to undertake a course of action or open a relationship.

transitive verb o·ver·tured, o·ver·tur·ing, o·ver·tures