n A beginning or introductory portion that comes before the main text of a document or book, typically serving to contextualize or explain the writing of the book and sometimes to acknowledge others' contributions.
n An introduction, or series of preliminary remarks.
n (Roman Catholicism) A variable prayer forming the prelude or introduction to the Eucharistic Prayer or canon of the Mass, following the Sursum corda dialogue and leading into the Sanctus.
n A title or epithet.
v (transitive) To introduce or make a comment before (the main point).
v (transitive) To give a preface to.
n Alternative letter-case form of preface (“prayer before the canon of the Mass”). [A beginning or introductory portion that comes before the main text of a document or book, typically serving to contextualize or explain the writing of the book and sometimes to acknowledge others' contributions.]