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 law
2 : an introductory fact or circumstance; especially : one indicating what is to follow