See Also: preface(medicine)
preface(1)(dictionary)
preface(2)(dictionary)
preface 1, noun(dictionary)
preface 2, verb(dictionary)

preface(2) (iou)



preface verb. E17.
[from the noun.]
verb intrans. Make introductory or prefatory remarks; write, speak, etc., a preface. E17.
I. Walton I will preface no longer, but proceed.
b. Hist. Give a commentary on the verses of the psalms about to be sung in a church service. Scot. E18.
verb trans. Write or say (something) as a preface; state beforehand. Now rare or obsolete. E17.
J. Strype The author thought fit to preface a very apt quotation.
verb trans.
a. Introduce, precede, herald. Now esp. (a) (of an event or action) lead up to (another); (b) introduce (a remark or action) (foll. by with, by doing). E17.
M. Drabble His dangerous encouragement of this scheme..prefaced her final disillusion with him. A. Pryce-Jones She prefaced each trivial remark by saying..'Ecoutez, Paul.'
b. Provide (a book etc.) with a preface. L17.
verb trans. Provide with something placed in front; occupy a position in front of. Usu. foll. by with. M17.
W. Trevor It was a white building..pillars and steps prefacing its entrance doors.
prefacer noun a person who writes a preface M17.