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DictionarychapeauIntroductory text
noun

chapeau

An introductory part of an official text that frames the provisions that follow.

The chapeau introduces the exceptions listed below.

Etymology
chapeauFrenchhat

The French word means hat. An introductory passage sits above and frames the provisions below it, figuratively serving as their covering or heading.

More examples

  • The lawyer read the chapeau before discussing each paragraph.
  • The article’s chapeau states the general condition.
  • The interpretation depends on the wording of the chapeau.

Forms

chapeau · chapeaus · chapeaux

Similar words

preamble
A preamble introduces a whole document; a chapeau can introduce a particular article or group of provisions.
heading
A heading is a title; a chapeau is introductory wording that governs what follows.