noun

preface

preface, introduction, foreword

The book has a preface written by the author.

The book has a preface written by the author.

a preface ((to sth.)) an introduction to a book or speech The book has a preface written by the author.

Synonyms: introduction, foreword, prologue; Antonyms: epilogue, afterword

From Latin 'praefatio', from 'prae-' (before) + 'fari' (to speak). Literally 'a speaking before'.

A 'preface' is what you 'face' 'pre' (before) the main text.

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