[pre.lude] n [MF, fr. ML praeludium, fr. L praeludere to play beforehand, fr. prae- + ludere to play--more at ludicrous] (1561) 1: an introductory performance, action, or event preceding and preparing for the principal or a more important matter
2. a: a musical section or movement introducing the theme or chief subject (as of a fugue or suite) or serving as an introduction to an opera or oratorio b: an opening voluntary c: a separate concert piece usu. for piano or orchestra and based entirely on a short motif
[2]prelude vb pre.lud.ed ; pre.lud.ing vt (1655) 1: to serve as a prelude to
2: to play as a prelude ~ vi: to give or serve as a prelude; esp: to play a musical introduction -- pre.lud.er n