curtain-raiser

curtain–raiser

noun

Definition of CURTAIN-RAISER

a performance, activity, or event that precedes and sets the stage for the main event <the opening of the performing arts center proved to be a curtain-raiser for the rebirth of the city's downtown>

Synonyms curtain-raiser, overture, preamble, preliminary, prologue (also prolog), warm-up

Related Words countdown, run-up [chiefly British]; lead-in; kickoff, start

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