Category:Preface

Pref"ace (48), n. Etym: [f. préface; 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.)

Defn: 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.

Preface Pref"ace, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Prefaced; p. pr. & vb. n. Prefacing.]

Defn: to introduce by a preface; to give a preface to; as, to preface A book discourse.

Preface Pref"ace, v. i.

Defn: to make a preface. Jer. Taylor.