Definitions for: Preface


[n] a short introductory essay preceding the text of a book
[v] furnish with a preface



Webster (1913) Definition: Pref"ace (?; 48), n. [F. pr['e]face; cf. Sp. prefacio,
prefacion, It. prefazio, prefazione; all fr. L. praefatio,
fr. praefari to speak or say beforehand; prae before + fari,
fatus, to speak. See Fate.]
1. Something spoken as introductory to a discourse, or
written as introductory to a book or essay; a proem; an
introduction, or series of preliminary remarks.

This superficial tale Is but a preface of her worthy
praise. --Shak.

Heaven's high behest no preface needs. --Milton.

2. (R. C. Ch.) The prelude or introduction to the canon of
the Mass. --Addis & Arnold.

Proper preface (Ch. of Eng. & Prot. Epis. Ch.), a portion
of the communion service, preceding the prayer of
consecration, appointed for certain seasons.

Syn: Introduction; preliminary; preamble; proem; prelude;
prologue.


Pref"ace, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Prefaced; p. pr. & vb.
n. Prefacing.]
To introduce by a preface; to give a preface to; as, to
preface a book discourse.


Pref"ace, v. i.
To make a preface. --Jer. Taylor.

Synonyms: foreword, introduce, premise, prolusion

See Also: introduction, preamble, prologise, prologize, say, state, tell, text, textual matter

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