preface

¹pref·ace

noun \ˈpre-fəs\

Definition of PREFACE

1

often capitalized : a variable doxology beginning with the Sursum Corda and ending with the Sanctus in traditional eucharistic liturgies

2

: the introductory remarks of a speaker or author

3

: approach, preliminary

Examples of PREFACE

1. The book's preface was written by the author.
2. <a noted critic has written a short preface to her story to explain some of the historical background>

Origin of PREFACE

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin prephatia, alteration of Latin praefation-, praefatio foreword, from praefari to say beforehand, from prae- pre- + fari to say — more at ban

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to PREFACE

Synonyms: exordium, foreword, intro, preamble, introduction, prelude, proem, prologue (also prolog), prolusion

Antonyms: epilogue (also epilog)

Related Words: beginning, commencement, initiation, opening, origin, origination, outset, start

Near Antonyms: envoi (or envoy), postscript; aftermath; cessation, close, closing, conclusion, end, finale, finish, stop, termination

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Other Printing Terms

epigraph, errata, leader, mechanical, notch, tittle, underscore, widow