An introductory speech, a preface.

Christian Church. The introduction to the central part of the Eucharist, consisting principally of an offering of thanksgiving and praise to God. Cf…

= preface, n. 1.

The first part or opening words of a chapter, book, speech, etc. Obsolete.

A preliminary action, or condition, preceding and introducing one of more importance; an introduction, a preface; a precursor.

That which is written beforehand or at the front (of a book, paper, etc.); a preface, an introduction.

The preliminary matter of a book, preceding the main text. Now usually in plural. Cf. prelim, n. 2.

In plural. The preliminary matter of a book; = preliminary, n. 3.