/
ˈprɛfəs/
n.
- an introduction to a book, typically stating its subject, scope, or aims.
- Christian Church the introduction to the central part of the Eucharist.
v.
- provide with a preface.
-
(preface something with/by)
introduce or begin a speech or event with or by doing something.
Derivative
- prefatory
/ˈprɛfət(ə)ri/
adj.
Etymology
ME: via OFr. from med. L. praefatia, alt. of L. praefatio(n-) ‘words spoken beforehand’, from praefari (v.), from prae ‘before’ + fari ‘speak’.