prelude

The definition of a prelude is something that serves as an introduction.

(noun)

The opening introduction before a literary work begins is an example of the prelude.
The romantic overtures that a person makes leading up to a kiss are an example of a prelude.

See prelude in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

anything serving as the introduction to a principal event, action, performance, etc.; preliminary part; preface; opening
Music
1. an introductory instrumental composition, such as the first movement of a suite or the overture to an opera
2. since the 19th cent., any short, romantic composition

Origin: Fr prélude < ML praeludium < L praeludere, to play beforehand < prae-, pre- + ludere, to play < ludus: see ludicrous

transitive verb, intransitive verb preluded, preluding

Origin: L praeludere

Related Forms:

See prelude in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

An introductory performance, event, or action preceding a more important one; a preliminary or preface.
Music
a. 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.
b. A similar but independent composition for the piano.
c. The overture to an oratorio, opera, or act of an opera.
d. A short composition of the 15th and early 16th centuries written in a free style, usually for keyboard.