[ 'prɛfəs ]
■ noun
1》 an introduction to a book, typically stating its subject, scope, or aims.
2》 Christian Church the introduction to the central part of the Eucharist.
■ verb
1》 provide with a ~.
2》 ( ~ something with/by ) introduce or begin a speech or event with or by doing something.
Derivatives
prefatory 'prɛfət(ə)ri adjective
Origin
ME: via OFr. from med. L. praefatia , alt. of L. praefatio(n-) 'words spoken beforehand', from praefari (v.), from prae 'before' + fari 'speak'.