prelude

(prĕlˈyo͞odˌ, prāˈlo͞odˌ, prēˈ-)

1. An introductory performance, event, or action preceding a more important one; a preliminary or preface.
2. 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.

1. To serve as a prelude to.
2. To introduce with or as if with a prelude.

Related Forms:

• prelˈudˌer noun

• pre·luˈdi·al (prĭ-lo͞oˈdē-əl) adjective