noun
Uncommon
preface
PREH-fuhs
Preface (noun) means an introductory section at the start of a book, usually explaining its background or purpose. Example: “In the preface, the author explains why she spent ten years researching the topic.”
noun
1
An introductory section at the start of a book, usually explaining its background or purpose.
"In the preface, the author explains why she spent ten years researching the topic."
verb
1
To introduce something with a few remarks beforehand.
"He prefaced his complaint by saying how much he usually loved the restaurant."
How to use preface
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn opening note before the main content, or the act of setting something up with a few words first.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
preface a remark
in the preface
write a preface
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Word forms
- Plural
- prefaces
- Third person singular
- prefaces
- Past tense
- prefaced
Fill the gap
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In the _____, the author explains why she spent ten years researching the topic.
Etymology
From Old French preface, from Medieval Latin prefatia, from classical Latin praefatio, \"a saying beforehand,\" from praefari, \"to speak in advance.\"
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for preface
See all rhymes for preface →Frequently asked questions
What does “preface” mean?
The word “preface” means an introductory section at the start of a book, usually explaining its background or purpose. In plain terms, an opening note before the main content, or the act of setting something up with a few words first.
How do you pronounce “preface”?
“Preface” is pronounced PREH-fuhs (/ˈpɹɛfəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “preface” in a sentence?
Here is “preface” used in a sentence: “In the preface, the author explains why she spent ten years researching the topic.”
What part of speech is “preface”?
Depending on how it is used, “preface” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “preface” come from?
The word “preface” comes from Medieval Latin. From Old French preface, from Medieval Latin prefatia, from classical Latin praefatio, \"a saying beforehand,\" from praefari, \"to speak in advance.\".
Is “preface” a common word?
“Preface” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “preface” have?
“Preface” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an introductory section at the start of a book, usually explaining its background or purpose.
