Main Entry:

pre·am·ble

Pronunciation:

\ˈprē-ˌam-bəl, prē-ˈ\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English, from Middle French preambule, from Medieval Latin preambulum, from Late Latin, neuter of praeambulus walking in front of, from Latin prae- + ambulare to walk

Date:

14th century

1: an introductory statement ; especially : the introductory part of a constitution or statute that usually states the reasons for and intent of the law2: an introductory fact or circumstance ; especially : one indicating what is to follow