Prologue — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /ˈprō-ˌlȯg/ pro·logue

Meaning & Definition of Prologue

Prologue (noun)

  1. the preface or introduction to a literary work
  2. a speech often in verse addressed to the audience by an actor at the beginning of a play
  3. the actor speaking such a prologue

Prologue (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. a performance, activity, or event that precedes and sets the stage for the main event

    "unfortunately, the burglary, which he committed while still a teen, was but a prologue to a wasted life of crime"

    related: countdown, run-up (chiefly British), lead-in, kickoff, start
  2. a short section (as of a book) that leads to or explains the main part

    "a brief prologue sets the scene for the story that follows"

    opposite: epilogue

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Prologue

The most common words with a similar meaning to Prologue:

Antonyms & Opposite Words for Prologue

Words with the opposite meaning of Prologue:

Near Antonyms of Prologue

Origin & Etymology of Prologue

Middle English prolog, from Anglo-French prologue, from Latin prologus preface to a play, from Greek prologos part of a Greek play preceding the entry of the chorus, from pro- before + legein to speak pro-, legend

First known use: 14th century

Frequently Asked Questions about Prologue

What does "Prologue" mean?

"Prologue" means the preface or introduction to a literary work. As a noun, it is defined as: the preface or introduction to a literary work. It has 2 distinct senses.

What is another word for "Prologue"?

Other words for "Prologue" include curtain-raiser, overture, preamble, preliminary, prelude, warm-up, exordium and foreword. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Prologue" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Prologue"?

There are 25 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Prologue". Common alternatives include curtain-raiser, overture, preamble, preliminary, prelude, warm-up, exordium, foreword, intro and introduction.

What is the opposite of "Prologue"?

Antonyms of "Prologue" include epilogue. Near antonyms include envoi, postscript, aftermath and cessation.

How do you use "Prologue" in a sentence?

Examples of "Prologue" in a sentence: "unfortunately, the burglary, which he committed while still a teen, was but a prologue to a wasted life of crime"; "a brief prologue sets the scene for the story that follows".

Is "Prologue" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Prologue" is a noun.

How do you pronounce "Prologue"?

"Prologue" is pronounced /ˈprō-ˌlȯg/ and divided into syllables as pro·logue.

What is the origin of the word "Prologue"?

"Prologue" comes from Middle English prolog, from Anglo-French prologue, from Latin prologus preface to a play, from Greek prologos part of a Greek play preceding the entry of the chorus, from pro- before + legein to speak pro-, legend. First known use: 14th century.