Pref″ace (?; 48), n. [F. préface; 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.] 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. (R. C. Ch.) The prelude or introduction to the canon of the Mass. Addis & Arnold.
Proper preface(Ch. of Eng. & Prot. Epis. Ch.), a portion of the communion service, preceding the prayer of consecration, appointed for certain seasons.
Syn. — Introduction; preliminary; preamble; proem; prelude; prologue.