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(; 48), n.[F. prface; 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. Pref"ace v. t.[imp. & p. p.Prefaced (); p. pr. & vb. n.Prefacing.] To introduce by a preface; to give a preface to; as, to preface a book discourse. Pref"ace v. i.To make a preface. Jer. Taylor. スポンサード リンク
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