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prelude

prel·ude

prelude

 
 
pronunciation:
preI lud [or] pri lud
parts of speech:
noun, transitive verb, intransitive verb
features:
Word Parts
part of speech: noun
definition 1: an introductory event or act; preface; preliminary.
The arrest of these writers was only a prelude to large-scale government oppression.We thought he'd finished telling the story, but what we'd heard was only a prelude to a very long tale.
similar words:
introduction, overture, preamble, preface, preliminary, prologue
definition 2: in music, an introductory piece or movement such as an overture, or a short, independent instrumental composition in a free form like an impromptu or improvisation.
Chopin's preludes for piano are among his most beloved works.
similar words:
introduction, overture
 
part of speech: transitive verb
inflections: preludes, preluding, preluded
definition 1: to be a prelude to.
definition 2: to introduce with a prelude.
 
part of speech: intransitive verb
definition 1: to serve as a prelude.
definition 2: to give or play a prelude.
Word Parts  About this feature
The word prelude contains the following part:
lud, lus Latin root that means to play