IPA: /ˈprɪljuːd/
KK: /ˈprilud/
To act as an introduction or something that comes before another event or action.
The soft music played a prelude to the main performance.
Past: preluded
Past Participle: preluded
An introductory event or piece of music that comes before something more important or significant.
The concert began with a beautiful prelude that set the mood for the evening.
To introduce something in a way that prepares for what comes next.
The soft music preluded the start of the ceremony.
Past: preluded
Past Participle: preluded
Prelude → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "ludere" (meaning to play). The word "prelude" refers to something that is played or occurs before the main event or performance.
Think of something that happens 'before' ('pre-') the main 'play' ('ludere') — that's why a prelude is an introduction to what follows.