Pre"lude (?), n. [F. pr'elude (cf. It. preludio, LL. praeludium), fr. L. prae before + ludus play. See Prelude, 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.
The last Georgic was a good prelude to the Aenis
Addison.
The cause is more than the prelude, the effect is more than the sequel, of the fact.
Whewell.
Syn. -- Preface; introduction; preliminary; preamble; forerunner; harbinger; precursor.
© Webster 1913.
Pre*lude" (?), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Preluded; p. pr. & vb. n. Preluding.] [L. praeludere, praelusum; prae before + ludere to play: cf. F. pr'eluder. See Ludicrous.]
To play an introduction or prelude; to give a prefatory performance; to serve as prelude.
The musicians preluded on their instruments.
Sir. W. Scott.
We are preluding too largely, and must come at once to the point.
Jeffrey.
© Webster 1913.
Pre*lude", v. t.
1.
To introduce with a previous performance; to play or perform a prelude to; as, to prelude a concert with a lively air.
2.
To serve as prelude to; to precede as introductory.
[Music] preluding some great tragedy.
Longfellow
© Webster 1913.