prolegomenon

Meaning

A prefatory discussion; a formal essay or critical discussion serving to introduce and interpret an extended work.

Synonyms

introduction

preface

intro

lead

lead-in

overture

preamble

prelude

exordium

lede

foreword

Translations

prolégomènes

önsöz

Pronounced as (IPA)

/ˌpɹəʊlɪˈɡɒmɪnɒn/

Etymology

From the Ancient Greek neuter noun: προλεγόμενον (prolegómenon, “that which is said beforehand,”) [plural: προλεγόμενα (prolegómena), from the verb: προλέγω (prolégō, “I say before[hand]”)] referring to an introduction.