The prefix "pre " means “before,” so it makes sense that a prelude is an introductory action, event or performance that comes before a bigger or more momentous one.
An introductory performance, preceding and preparing for the principal matter; a preliminary part, movement, strain, etc.; especially
Noun
music that precedes a fugue or introduces an act in an opera
Noun
something that serves as a preceding event or introduces what follows; "training is a necessary preliminary to employment"; "drinks were the overture to dinner"
Verb
play as a prelude
Verb
serve as a prelude or opening to
v. t.
An introductory performance, preceding and preparing
for the principal matter; a preliminary part, movement, strain, etc.;
especially (Mus.), a strain introducing the theme or chief subject; a
movement introductory to a fugue, yet independent; -- with recent
composers often synonymous with overture.
v. i.
To play an introduction or prelude; to give a prefatory
performance; to serve as prelude.
v. t.
To introduce with a previous performance; to play or
perform a prelude to; as, to prelude a concert with a lively air.
v. t.
To serve as prelude to; to precede as introductory.
Prelude
The last Georgic was a good prelude to the '92nis
The cause is more than the prelude, the effect is more than the sequel, of the fact.
Prelude
The musicians preluded on their instruments.
We are preluding too largely, and must come at once to the point.
Prelude
[Music] preluding some great tragedy.
An introductory performance, preceding and preparing for the principal matter; a preliminary part, movement, strain, etc.; especially
To play an introduction or prelude; to give a prefatory performance; to serve as prelude.
To introduce with a previous performance; to play or perform a prelude to;
Usage Examples
It is said that those whom the gods wish to destroy they first make mad. It may well be that a war neurosis stirred up by propaganda of fear and hatred is the prelude to destruction.
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Other Usage ExamplesFreedom is not won by merely overthrowing a tyrannical ruler or an oppressive regime. That is usually only the prelude to a new tyranny, a new oppression.
Make no mistake, most women are well aware that they've never had it so good when they enter a spa or salon, it is purely a hair/nails thing, a prelude to an evening of guilt-free fun.