prologue

The definition of a prologue is something that comes before an introduction to a book or play, or may be an action or situation that leads to something else.

(noun)

  1. An introduction before a book begins is an example of a prologue.
  2. Riots caused by dissatisfaction with the government may be a prologue to a revolution.

YourDictionary definition and usage example. Copyright © 2013 by LoveToKnow Corp.

See prologue in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

  1. an introduction to a poem, play, etc.; esp., introductory lines spoken by a member of the cast before a dramatic performance
  2. the actor speaking such lines
  3. a preliminary act or course of action foreshadowing greater events

Origin: ME prologe < MFr < L prologus < Gr prologos < pro-, before + logos, discourse: see pro- & logic

Also sp. prolog

See prologue in American Heritage Dictionary 4

also pro·log

noun
  1. An introduction or preface, especially a poem recited to introduce a play.
  2. An introduction or introductory chapter, as to a novel.
  3. An introductory act, event, or period.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English prolog

Origin: , from Old French prologue

Origin: , from Latin prologus

Origin: , from Greek prologos

Origin: : pro-, before; see pro-2

Origin: + logos, speech; see leg- in Indo-European roots

.

Learn more about prologue

link/cite print suggestion box