Simple Definition of overture
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: a piece of music played at the start of an opera, a musical play, etc.
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: something that is offered or suggested with the hope that it will start a relationship, lead to an agreement, etc.
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: the first part of an event : the beginning of something
Full Definition of overture
Examples of overture in a sentence
The government has made a significant peace overture by opening the door to negotiation.
<the parade down Main Street served as the overture for a weekend of fun and festivities>
Origin and Etymology of overture
Middle English, literally, opening, from Anglo-French, from Vulgar Latin *opertura, alteration of Latin apertura — more at aperture
First Known Use: 15th century
overture
Definition of overture
overtured
overturing
transitive verb
1 : to put forward as an overture
2 : to make or present an overture to
Circa 1650
First Known Use of overture
circa 1650
OVERTURE Defined for Kids
overture
playDefinition of overture for Students
1 : something first offered or suggested with the hope of reaching an agreement <Old enemies made overtures of peace.>
2 : a piece of music played at the beginning of an opera or musical play
Learn More about overture
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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for overture Spanish Central: Translation of overture Nglish: Translation of overture for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about overture
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