Definition of prelude

< Prelog, Vladimir

prelusion >

prel·ude    (prlyd, prld, pr-) KEY 

NOUN:

1. An introductory performance, event, or action preceding a more important one; a preliminary or preface.
2. Music
   1. A piece or movement that serves as an introduction to another section or composition and establishes the key, such as one that precedes a fugue, opens a suite, or precedes a church service.
   2. A similar but independent composition for the piano.
   3. The overture to an oratorio, opera, or act of an opera.
   4. A short composition of the 15th and early 16th centuries written in a free style, usually for keyboard.

VERB:
prel·ud·ed, prel·ud·ing, prel·udes
VERB:
tr.

1. To serve as a prelude to.
2. To introduce with or as if with a prelude.

VERB:
intr.

To serve as a prelude or introduction.

---

ETYMOLOGY:
Medieval Latin praeldium, from Latin praeldere, to play beforehand : prae-, pre- + ldere, to play; see leid- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
preluder(Noun), pre·ludi·al  (pr-ld-l) KEY (Adjective)