n. [ F. prélude (cf. It. preludio, LL. praeludium), fr. L. prae before + ludus play. See Prelude, v. t. ] An introductory performance, preceding and preparing for the principal matter; a preliminary part, movement, strain, etc.; especially (Mus.), a strain introducing the theme or chief subject; a movement introductory to a fugue, yet independent; -- with recent composers often synonymous with overture. [ 1913 Webster ]

The last Georgic was a good prelude to the Aenis Addison. [ 1913 Webster ]

The cause is more than the prelude, the effect is more than the sequel, of the fact. Whewell. [ 1913 Webster ]

Syn. -- Preface; introduction; preliminary; preamble; forerunner; harbinger; precursor. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. i. [ imp. & p. p. Preluded; p. pr. & vb. n. Preluding. ] [ L. praeludere, praelusum; prae before + ludere to play: cf. F. préluder. See Ludicrous. ] To play an introduction or prelude; to give a prefatory performance; to serve as prelude. [ 1913 Webster ]

The musicians preluded on their instruments. Sir. W. Scott. [ 1913 Webster ]

We are preluding too largely, and must come at once to the point. Jeffrey. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. t. 1. To introduce with a previous performance; to play or perform a prelude to; as, to prelude a concert with a lively air. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To serve as prelude to; to precede as introductory. [ 1913 Webster ]

[ Music ] preluding some great tragedy. Longfellow [ 1913 Webster ]

n. One who, or that which, preludes; one who plays a prelude. Mason. [ 1913 Webster ]