Definition of preamble
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
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Examples of preamble in a Sentence
The preamble to the U.S. Constitution begins by saying “We the People of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, …”.
His early travels were just a preamble to his later adventures.
Recent Examples of preamble from the Web
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The opening rounds have had the tone of an extended preamble, the Warriors’ and Cavs’ stars going through a month-and-a-half warm-up routine against negligible opposition.
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In a 12-minute movie preamble, Tully, played by actor Barry Primus, has a scuffle in a bar with his longtime nemesis, the moon's sheriff, played by Ned Beatty.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'preamble'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of preamble
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
First Known Use: 14th century
PREAMBLE Defined for English Language Learners
preamble
playDefinition of preamble for English Language Learners
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: a statement that is made at the beginning of something (such as a legal document) and usually gives the reasons for the parts that follow
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: something that comes before and leads to something else
PREAMBLE Defined for Kids
preamble
playDefinition of preamble for Students
: an introduction (as to a law) that often gives the reasons for what follows
Law Dictionary
preamble
playLegal Definition of preamble
: an introductory statement (as to a contract); especially : the introductory part of a constitution or statute that usually states the reasons for and intent of the law
Additional Notes on preamble
While preambles do not state law and therefore are not judicially enforceable, they are used to determine legislative intent when interpreting statutes.
Origin and Etymology of preamble
Middle French preambule, from Medieval Latin preambulum, from Late Latin, neuter of preambulus walking in front of, from Latin prae- + ambulare to walk
Learn More about preamble
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See words that rhyme with preamble Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for preamble Spanish Central: Translation of preamble Nglish: Translation of preamble for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of preamble for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about preamble
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