preface
/ˈpɹɛfəs/
Word Rarity
Rare
Frequency: Zipf frequency 3.39 in modern English
14
Scrabble Score
7
Letters
2
Syllables
6
Unique Chars
Meaning
noun
A beginning or introductory portion that comes before the main text of a document or book, typically serving to contextualize or explain the writing of the book and sometimes to acknowledge others' contributions; especially, such a discussion written by the work's own author.
noun
An introduction, or series of preliminary remarks.
noun
A variable prayer forming the prelude or introduction to the Eucharistic Prayer or canon of the Mass, following the Sursum corda dialogue and leading into the Sanctus.
noun
Alternative letter-case form of preface (“prayer before the canon of the Mass”).
Example Sentences
- "Holonyms: front matter, prelims"
- "The book included a brief preface explaining the author's motivations for writing."
- "This superficial tale / Is but a preface of her worthy praise."
- "Heav'ns high behest no preface needs."
- "And now, without any further preface, we proceed to our next chapter."
- "Meronyms: protocol, embolism, eschatocol"
Etymology
Late 14th century, from Middle English preface, prefas, from Old French preface (from which derives the modern French préface), from Medieval Latin prefātia, for classical Latin praefātiō (“a saying beforehand”), from praefor (“to speak beforehand”), from prae- (“beforehand”) + for (“to speak”).
Origin
Word Breakdown
- Root: preface, prefātia, praefātiō
Regional Pronunciation
- American English: /ˈpɹɛfəs/
- British English: /ˈpɹɛfəs/