noun / verb
preface
PREF-uhs/ˈprefəs/
An opening section or remarks that introduce what follows.
The author explains her reasons for writing in the book's preface.
Etymology
The pieces express “speaking beforehand.” A preface supplies preliminary remarks before the main discourse, extending the image of an opening speech to the introductory section of a book.
In context
he explains in the preface why this book even exists
More examples
- Read the preface before starting the first chapter.
- She prefaces her presentation with a brief personal story.
- He prefaced his question with an apology.
Forms
preface · prefaces · prefaced · prefacing
prefatory adjective — Serving to introduce the material that follows.
Similar words
- introduction
- A broader term for opening material that prepares an audience.
- foreword
- An opening book section usually written by someone other than its author.
- prologue
- An opening section that often establishes a story's background.