n. 1. a. A preliminary statement or essay introducing a book that explains its scope, intention, or background and is usually written by the author. b. An introductory section, as of a speech. 2. Something introductory; a preliminary: An informal brunch served as a preface to the three-day conference. 3. often Preface The words introducing the central part of the Eucharist in several Christian churches. tr.v. pref·aced, pref·ac·ing, pref·ac·es 1. To introduce by or provide with a preliminary statement or essay. 2. To serve as an introduction to. [Middle English, from Old French, from Latin praefātiō, praefātiōn-, from praefātus, past participle of praefārī, to say before : prae-, pre- + fārī, to speak; see bhā-2 in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] prefac·er n. |
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