proem

noun

pro·​em ˈprō-ˌem How to pronounce proem (audio)
-əm
1
: preliminary comment : preface
2
proemial adjective

Examples of proem in a Sentence

the proem promises what the book does not deliver: a totally new interpretation of the French Revolution

Word History

Etymology

Middle English proheme, from Anglo-French proeme, from Latin prooemium, from Greek prooimion, from pro- + oimē song; probably akin to Hittite išamai- song, Sanskrit syati he binds — more at sinew

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of proem was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near proem

Cite this Entry

“Proem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proem. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on proem

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!