preamble
UK: ˈpriː.æm.bəl | US: ˈpriˌæm.bəl
n. a preliminary or introductory statement, especially to a formal document or speech
n. an introductory section in music or literature
preamble = pre<before> + amble<walk>
- pre: From Latin prae- (before), indicating something prior or introductory.
- amble: From Latin ambulare (to walk), later evolving to imply a leisurely progression.
Etymology Origin:
The word "preamble" originated in Late Middle English via Old French preambule, from Latin praeambulum (a thing that walks before). It combines prae- (before) and ambulare (to walk), metaphorically describing an introduction that "walks before" the main content. This reflects the idea of a preparatory statement guiding the reader or listener into the core material.
The Constitution's preamble outlines its fundamental principles.
The author included a brief preamble to contextualize the novel.
The meeting began with a lengthy preamble about company values.
In music, a preamble often sets the tone for the composition.
Skip the preamble and get straight to the key points.