Preface

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈpɹɛfÉ™s/
• Rhymes: -É›fÉ™s

Alternative forms

• præface archaic

Origin

1350–1400; Middle English prefas, which is from Old French preface (from which derives the modern French préface), from Medieval Latin prefatia, for classical Latin praefatio ("a saying beforehand"), from praefor ("to speak beforehand"), from prae- ("beforehand") + for ("to speak")

Full definition of preface

Noun

1. The beginning or introductory portion that comes before the main text of a document or book.The book included a brief preface by a leading expert in the field.
2. An introduction, or series of preliminary remarks.
• ShakespeareThis superficial tale
  Is but a preface of her worthy praise.
• MiltonHeaven's high behest no preface needs.
3. (Roman Catholic) The prelude or introduction to the canon of the Mass.

Verb

1. (transitive) To introduce or make a comment before (the main point).Let me preface this by saying that I don't know him that well.
2. (transitive) To give a preface to.to preface a book

Related terms

• prefatory