Dictionary > Preface

Preface

preface
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. The prelude or introduction to the canon of the mass.
(Science: engineering) proper preface, a portion of the communion service, preceding the prayer of consecration, appointed for certain seasons.
Synonym: Introduction, preliminary, preamble, proem, prelude, prologue.
Origin: F. Preface; 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.

Last updated on June 24th, 2021

You will also like...

Structural depiction of catalase, an enzyme
Protein Activity and Cellular Metabolism

Proteins have a crucial role in various biological activities. Get to know how proteins are able to perform as enzymes, ..

Transpiration
Water in Plants

The movement of molecules (specifically, water and solutes) is vital to the understanding of plant processes. This tuto..

Ecosystem Succession
Ecosystem Succession

If the balance of nature is left untouched, landscapes can change dramatically over time. A previous ecosystem is supers..

Non-Mendelian Inheritance
Non-Mendelian Inheritance

In this tutorial, find out more about certain types of inheritance that does not follow the Mendelian inheritance patter..

The process of photosynthesis
Photosynthesis – Photolysis and Carbon Fixation

Photosynthesis is the process that plants undertake to create organic materials from carbon dioxide and water, with the ..

green plant cells
Plant Cells vs. Animal Cells

Plant cells have plastids essential in photosynthesis. They also have an additional layer called cell wall on their cell..