First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1preface
noun pref·ace \ˈpre-fəs\
: an introduction to a book or speech
Full Definition of PREFACE
1
often capitalized : a variable doxology beginning with the Sursum Corda and ending with the Sanctus in traditional eucharistic liturgies
2
: the introductory remarks of a speaker or author
3
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Origin of PREFACE
Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin prephatia, alteration of Latin praefation-, praefatio foreword, from praefari to say beforehand, from prae- pre- + fari to say — more at ban
Related to PREFACE
Other Printing Terms
2preface
verb
: to introduce (a piece of writing, a speech, a remark, etc.) by writing or saying something
pref·acedpref·ac·ing
Full Definition of PREFACE
intransitive verb
: to make introductory remarks
transitive verb
1
: to say or write as preface <a note prefaced to the manuscript>
3
: to introduce by or begin with a preface
4
: to stand in front of <a porch prefaces the entrance>
5
: to be a preliminary to
— pref·ac·er noun
See preface defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of PREFACE
1619
PREFACE Defined for Kids
preface
noun pref·ace \ˈpre-fəs\
Definition of PREFACE for Kids
: a section at the beginning that introduces a book or a speech
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